Baby born with Zika-related microcephaly in NYC

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) - The NYC Health Dept. announced Friday the first case of microcephaly in a baby caused by the Zika virus.

The baby was diagnosed with microcephaly, or a smaller than normal head, and several other brain problems.

"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," said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Dr. Herminia Palacio.

The baby's mother was infected while in an area with ongoing Zika transmission.

The infant and mother are currently being cared monitored by physicians. 

The Health Department says it is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on this case.

The Health Department's travel advisory urges pregnant women and those trying to conceive not travel to places where there is active transmission of the Zika virus. These places currently include virtually all South and Central America and the Caribbean. 

More than 320 Zika cases have been reported in New York State.

The virus is carried by mosquitoes.