We conducted an external quality assessment of Zika virus molecular diagnostic tests in Brazil using a new Zika virus standard. Of 15 laboratories, 73% showed limited sensitivity and specificity. Viral load estimates varied significantly. Continuous quality assurance is needed to adequately estimate risk for Zika virus-associated disease and determine patient care.
Keywords: Americas; Brazil; Zika virus; diagnostics; real-time RT-PCR; surveillance; vector-borne infections; viruses.