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Zika Resource Center
July 25, 2016
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Officials report NYC's first baby born with Zika-related microcephaly

The New York City Health Department has reported the first baby delivered in a hospital within the five boroughs with Zika-related microcephaly, according to a press release.

The mother, who was infected with the Zika virus while in an area with ongoing Zika transmission, and child are currently in care and being monitored by physicians, city health officials said. The baby, who has been diagnosed with microcephaly and other brain problems, is positive for Zika.

“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,” Herminia Palacio, MD, MPH, New York deputy mayor for health and human services, said in a press release. “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.”

According to the city health department, physicians have requested tests for more than 2,000 pregnant women who have traveled to areas with active Zika virus transmission. As of July 15, 41 pregnant women within the city have been confirmed to have the virus.

Both the NYC Health Department and the CDC have recommended that women who are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant, avoid all travel to areas with active Zika transmission. According to New York health officials, this includes “virtually all South and Central America and the Caribbean.” In addition, individuals are urged to use barrier protection, such as condoms and dental dams, when having sex with someone who has traveled to an area with active Zika transmission.

In the event of an emergency requiring travel to an area with active Zika transmission, the city health department recommends pregnant women stay indoors during the day and use mosquito repellent. Women who may become pregnant are urged to use an effective contraceptive method to prevent an unplanned pregnancy.

“While not surprising, given the travel trends of our global city, this case is a strong reminder of the tragic consequences of the Zika virus. We are monitoring the baby’s health closely and connecting the family with the necessary services to take care of their child,” Mary T. Bassett, MD, MPH, the city health commissioner, said in a press release. “I remind all pregnant women in New York City, and those trying to get pregnant, that they should delay travel to places where there is active Zika transmission.”

Additional reading:

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/zika-virus.page