Man dies in Puerto Rico from Zika-related paralysis

A man stricken with Zika-related paralysis has died in Puerto Rico. It is the first case of Zika-related death due to paralysis in the territory, according to state epidemiologist Brenda Rivera-Garcia.

Advertisement

The victim — a man between 35 and 45 — was afflicted with Guillain-Barré syndrome, which has been linked to the Zika virus. Guillain-Barré causes the immune system to attack the nervous system, which results in rapid-onset muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis.

According to an Associated Press report relayed by The Guardian, Dr. Rivera-Garcia said it was unusual that the victim was so young. “What does this tell us?” said Dr. Rivera-Garcia. “That all of us are susceptible?”

As of Aug. 17, more than 8,000 people in U.S. territories have been infected with the Zika virus. Among the states, there have been more than 2,200 people infected.

More articles on the Zika virus: 
Up to 270 babies may be born with Zika-related microphealy in Puerto Rico 
CDC updates guidance for Zika infant care: 4 things to know 
Miami Beach mosquitoes now transmit Zika, new cases show

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Register to Attend Webinar

When nurses help build the AI, adoption follows: Lessons from 3 health systems

Tuesday, July 28
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Amy McCarthy, DNP, RNC-MNN, NE-BC, CENP, Hippocratic AIBeth Reimschissel, PhD, RN, CNL, Memorial HermannAllison Schlinkert, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, Cincinnati Children'sScott Estep, MBOE, BSN, RN, CSSBB, OhioHealth System

Advertisement

Next Up in Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

Advertisement

Comments are closed.