New York sees first baby born with Zika-related microcephaly

On July 22, officials from the New York City Department of Health announced the city's first case of Zika-related microcephaly in a baby born in a city hospital to a mother who contracted the virus while visiting a country with active local transmission.

In addition to microcephaly, the infant — who tested positive for Zika — is suffering from other undisclosed brain defects.

"Today, I am the bearer of sad news: we have confirmed New York City's first baby born with microcephaly associated with the Zika virus," said Herminia Palacio, MD, deputy mayor for the department. "The city has been preparing for this scenario for many months now, and we stand ready to help families caring for an infant with microcephaly. This case is a sad reminder that Zika can have tragic consequences for pregnant women."

The CDC is currently monitoring 400 pregnant women in the U.S. who have exhibited laboratory evidence of the Zika virus.

More articles on the Zika virus: 
CDC awards $60 million to states, territories to battle Zika  
Florida investigates second possible locally acquired Zika case  
Brazil launches app for Olympians to self-monitor, report Zika 

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