The
incidence of
Microcephaly and / or
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has increased in several countries, concurrent with a
Zika virus outbreak.
Physicians,
nurses and other
healthcare providers must be aware of the
strategies to be utilized when consulting with the following groups of
persons and their
families pregnant women;
pregnant women with suspected or confirmed
Zika virus infection;
pregnant women who know they carry a
child with suspected
microcephaly;
caregivers and
families of an
infant with
microcephaly; and
persons with GBS and other
neurological disorders.
Psychosocial support is the process of addressing the psychological and social issues associated with a particular crisis. In this instance, the crisis is related to the
Zika virus outbreak. The team involved in the
provision of psychological support includes but is not limited to the
primary healthcare provider;
Obstetrician / Gynaecologist; Paediatrician;
Registered Nurse /
Midwife;
Neurologist, or other
physician or surgeon.