CDC: Zika cases in Brazil highlight need for enhanced epilepsy surveillance

Seizures and epilepsy were reported last year in some infants in Brazil with probable or laboratory evidence of congential Zika virus infection, according to a commentary co-authored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in JAMA Neurology. In a study of 48 infants with probable congenital Zika virus syndrome, 50% reportedly had clinical seizure, the authors said. In another study of 13 infants with laboratory evidence of congenital Zika virus, 54% were diagnosed as having epilepsy. CDC said cases of Zika virus-associated epilepsy may be misdiagnosed or underreported because seizure symptoms in infants and children are difficult to recognize. “Better recognition, diagnosis, and reporting of seizures and epilepsy in infants and young children will help guide interventions to make sure families receive the right support and treatment,” the agency said.