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Florida's First Zika-Related Microcephaly Birth Confirmed

Pixabay/Public Domain

Florida health officials announcedthe first infant born with microcephaly in the state Tuesday, due to the Zika virus. The mother is a Haitian citizen.
The Florida Department of Health said in a press release the pregnant woman contracted Zika in Haiti, but she traveled to Florida to give birth to her child. Her baby was born with microcephaly, a known birth defect from expecting mothers with Zika. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say microcephaly causes abnormally small heads and incomplete brain development.

Florida Governor Scott said in a press release this news is “heartbreaking.” Last week, Scott used his executive authority to give more than $26-million in state funds to prepare and respond to Zika, after Congress failed to agree on federal Zika funds. The Senate is expected to vote on it Tuesday.

Jessica Meszaros is a reporter and host of Morning Edition at WUSF Public Media, and former reporter and host of All Things Considered for WGCU News.
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