According to the report, the Zika virus caused a drop in platelets, which, in addition to other comorbidities, contributed to his death due to respiratory and cardiac complications.
The two other Zika-related deaths in the territory occurred after the infected individuals developed complications related to Guillain-Barre syndrome — a disorder where the immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system, which causes paralysis. Guillain-Barre has been previously linked to Zika.
Dr. Rius also reported the death of a fetus with brain damage related to a Zika infection in the mother.
According to the Associated Press, there have been 26,701 Zika cases reported on the island, including more than 2,000 pregnant women.
More articles on the Zika virus:
New research strengthens link between Zika and Guillain-Barre
Hurricane Matthew could aid Florida Zika spread
Zika vaccine prevents neurological defects in mouse study
