Maternal Fetal Expert Available to Speak About Zika Virus Risk for Pregnant Women

Dr. Marjorie Treadwell, director of the Fetal Diagnosis Center at the University of Michigan, is a maternal and fetal medicine expert who can speak about the Zika virus and particularly the concerns for pregnant women. Newswise — “Although the Zika virus rarely causes significant illness in adults, the effects could be severe and irreversible for the fetus of a pregnant woman who is infected. Unfortunately, there are still many unknowns. We don’t know how likely it is for a fetus to be affected by the virus if the mother has it. We don’t know if women are more likely to get an infection just because they are pregnant. At the present time, there is no treatment available and the recommendations focus on prevention.” “It’s important to emphasize that the only way a person can be infected by this virus is through a mosquito bite. Pregnant women who have not traveled to countries where the Zika virus has been reported are not at risk.” For interview requests please contact Beata Mostafavi at 734-764-2220.