A reliable clinical assay that can detect the Zika virus from semen samples has been discovered by scientist. This assay can reduce Zika infection rates and allow couples who are at risk to plan their pregnancy
A total of 100 semen samples were spiked with a recombinant Accuplex ZIKV (SeraCare Life Sciences) at 5 viral copies per ml and processed in Aptima Urine Transport medium (Hologic Inc.) and tested using Aptima® ZIKV assay released under the FDA's emergency use authorization on the fully automated Panther system from Hologic, Inc.
The samples were also tested for West Nile Virus, Chagas and Dengue, recombinant Dengue Virus, recombinant Chikungunya Virus, Human Papilloma Virus, Herpes Simplex Virus 1, Herpes Simplex Virus 2, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.
The experiment was repeated three times and in triplicates each time.
The assay was found to be 100% sensitive and 100% specific to ZIKV RNA from semen samples with a limit of detection of 5 viral copies per mL of semen.
Accurate diagnosis is very important for management of Zika virus and to prevent neonatal infections. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause birth defects.
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