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Human Disease Surveillance
The IDPH Communicable Disease Control Section (CDCS) conducts human surveillance for arboviral infections, including Zika virus.
Disease surveillance data is reported in the Illinois National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (I-NEDSS) surveillance database. Specific information can be collected on each case, including, but not limited to, complete travel history (destination, departure, and return dates), clinical symptoms, pregnancy status (including fetal ultrasound findings), and laboratory test results. These data are reviewed daily for completeness and cases with incomplete data are returned to the local health department (LHD) for completion. All confirmed cases of Zika virus for which investigations have been closed are uploaded to ArboNET and transmitted to the CDC on a weekly basis. The CDCS Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Reporting System (APORS) program collaborates with LHDs to collect the information required for the US Zika Pregnancy Registry (USZPR). De-identified maternal, neonate, and infant follow-up forms are submitted to the USZPR.
This registry is a way to comprehensively monitor pregnancy and infant outcomes following Zika virus infection. The data collected through this system is used to update recommendations for clinical cases, to plan for services and support for pregnant women and families affected by Zika virus, and to improve prevention of Zika virus infection during pregnancy. Pregnancy Registry data will not be released at the state level to ensure the privacy of the individuals.
The CDCS coordinates specimen submission (including serum, amniotic fluid, whole blood, urine, and fetal tissue), with LHDs and providers. This involves providing appropriate guidance on collection, packaging, handling, and shipping of specimens. It also fields calls from LHDs who need additional guidance on testing, lab report interpretation, disease surveillance activities, specimen submission, etc. The DES (or APORS) provides information to callers requesting information about neonate and infant follow-up.
IDPH CDCS will continue to provide resources, educational materials, up-to-date travel notices, and guidance surrounding Zika virus on the IDPH Web Portal for infection control professionals and LHDs to share with clinicians and other health partners in their jurisdictions.
Neither vaccines nor proven clinical treatments are available at this time to treat or prevent Zika virus infections.
The IDPH Office of Preparedness and Response (OPR) will assist CDCS to assess and coordinate Zika virus planning and resources, and continue to provide technical assistance.
