Zika Virus Shedding in Semen

Although Zika virus can be found in semen for up to 6 months after illness, infectious virus seems to be present only for 30 days.

With the rapid spread of the arthropod-borne Zika virus, the potential for sexual transmission of the virus that might occur even after individuals have left endemic areas has become a concern, particularly for women who are or wish to become pregnant. Researchers prospectively studied men with confirmed, symptomatic Zika virus infection to determine both the frequency and risk factors for prolonged viral shedding in urine and semen.

There were 1230 evaluable semen samples obtained from 184 men, of whom 60 (33%) had at least one sample positive for Zika virus RNA, including 7 of 28 men who had undergone vasectomy. Zika virus RNA was detected in 61% of men who submitted samples within 30 days of illness onset versus 7% of men who submitted sa…

Reviewing Author

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Richard T. Ellison III, MD

Disclosures

Consult/Advisory BoardAcurx Pharmaceuticals, LLC;

Grant/Research SupportDoctors Company Foundation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health

Zika Virus Shedding in Semen

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Reviewing Author