Zika or Not?

3rd adult died from Zika virus: Brazil health ministry

Brazil health authorities have confirmed the death of a third adult from Zika virus infection.

The latest reported victim was a 20-year-old woman, who suffered from lupus, arthritis and alcoholism. Her compromised immune system was unable to fight the ZIKV infection.

The three deaths occurred one each in the northeastern state of Rio Grande do Norte, the northern state of Para, and the city of Sao Luis, capital of the northern state of Maranhao.

Authorities believe the infection may have already killed up to 76 babies in Brazil, all of whom died with microcephaly after their mothers had contracted Zika.

However, they are still investigating whether Zika can cause microcephaly. Of the 4,000 or so reported cases of microcephaly, only 17 were linked to Zika, while 709 other cases have been ruled out.

Related Links

• ‘Evidence of Zika Virus Infection in Brain and Placental Tissues’ February 11, 2016