Zika linked to joint deformities in newborns

A study published in the BMJ Open has suggested that catching the Zika infection during pregnancy can cause limb deformities in babies.

The news comes after the World Health Organisation declared the Zika outbreak a a world health emergency, after if was found to cause serious brain defects in babies.

The virus has been spreading across the Americas and has deterred people from visiting the Olympic host country Rio De Janeras, after pregnant women were urged to steer clear of affected countries.

The research examined seven babies with suspected Zika infection that had been born with hip, knee, ankle, elbow, wrist and/or finger joint problems that fit with a medical diagnosis called arthrogryposis.

Commenting on the report’s findings, Professor Jimmy Whitworth, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: “Microcephaly is the most obvious sign of congenital infection with Zika, but it's becoming clear that's just part of the whole spectrum of damage that can be caused by the virus."

Whitworth added: “Studies suggest the current epidemic could go on for three or four years. We think there's going to be tens of thousands of babies who could be affected by Zika.

"Meeting their physical and psychosocial needs will be the real challenge."