Socioeconomic aspects of genitors of children with microcefalia related to Zika virus

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Microcephaly is a poor cerebral formation that has no cure and is characterized by a cephalic perimeter lower than expected for age and sex. It is related to the Zika virus that is transmitted by the mosquito Aedes and when contracted in the first gestational months increase the chances of the fetus to develop microcephaly, since the cerebral development begins in the intrauterine phase. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to characterize the socioeconomic profile of those responsible for children with a diagnosis of microcephaly related to Zika virus. METHODS: We interviewed 41 primary caregivers of children with microcephaly in Salvador and Metropolitan Region of Salvador, through a questionnaire containing 30 closed questions that addressed family, socioeconomic and health issues. RESULTS: It was observed that most of the babies were between 15-18 months and had their diagnosis mostly intrauterine. There was a high frequency of unemployment among parents, who reported surviving up to 1 monthly minimum wage, had completed high school, were single or in a stable union and a significant number cited unfavorable health conditions and denied using repellent. Overall, the primary caregivers reported that they did not have their own residence, and most of them took the children to multiprofessional care in both public hospitals and non-profit institutions. CONCLUSION: There is a predominant frequency of parents who have children with Zeca virus-related microcephaly in low socioeconomic conditions, who consequently fail to meet most of the needs that a malnourished infant needs.