Sources confirm baby born in Berkeley with Zika-related microcephaly

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ByKatie Marzullo KGO logo
Friday, August 5, 2016
Berkeley baby born with Zika-related microcephaly
Sources have confirmed to ABC7 News that a baby born at Alta Bates in Berkeley has Zika-related microcephaly.

LOS ANGELES (KGO) -- A mother who contracted the Zika virus gave birth inside a Bay Area delivery room and the baby has Zika-related birth defects.

Two sources, who asked not to be identified, confirmed that the baby was born a few months ago at Alta Bates Hospital in Berkeley and that the baby has Zika-related microcephaly.

The California Department of Public Health announced Thursday that two babies in the state were born with Zika-related birth defects.

"Two infants with Zika-related microcephaly have been born in California to women who had Zika virus infections during pregnancy and after spending time in a country where the virus is endemic," said Karen Smith, director and state public health officer.

Microcephaly is a condition in which the head is smaller than normal because the brain has not developed properly. There is no treatment.

"I'd like to emphasize that what we do not know about Zika, its effects and its spread remains greater than what we do know," Smith said.

Public health has confirmed 114 Zika infections associated with travel in California. Twenty-one of the patients were pregnant women. Officials say there is currently no risk to the public.

"While mosquitoes that can carry the virus have been found in 12 California counties, there is no evidence these mosquitoes are transmitting Zika in the state at this time," Smith said.

Officials continue to urge pregnant women to avoid travel to places with known Zika transmission.

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