LAUSR

Abstract Background Zika virus (ZIKV) infection can result in hearing loss in babies, consequently, audiological monitoring is necessary. Aims This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of hearing impairment in neonates and children exposed to ZIKV during the intrauterine period. Materials and methods A cohort of 30 children born to mothers infected with ZIKV during pregnancy (March 2016–January 2017) underwent repeated hearing assessments performed 48 h after birth. Universal Newborn Hearing Screening revealed normal results in all children at 6, 13, 24, and 36 months. Children were divided into two subgroups based on real-time polymerase chain reaction: RT-PCR(+) and RT-PCR(-). Results At 24 months, the cumulative incidence of hearing alteration was 57.1%. There was no significant difference in the detection of hearing alteration between RT-PCR(+) and (-) groups. None of the children had sensorineural hearing loss; Conclusions and significance None of the children had sensorineural hearing loss. Total incidence conductive type (per 1000 live births), RT-PCR ZIKV (-) 2.2, prevalence 20% and RT-PCR ZIKV 3.1, prevalence 35.7%.The incidence of hearing alteration was highest at 24 months of age (57.1%, n = 8; only conductive type).