State Capitol Highlights

Texas baby is born with Zika-related microcephaly

AUSTIN — The Texas Department of State Health Services has confirmed a Zika virus infection in a baby recently born with microcephaly in Harris County.

The July 13 report is the first official confirmation of a Zika-related microcephaly case in Texas. According to the agency, the mother traveled from Latin America, where she was likely infected and the baby acquired the infection in utero.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt. “This underscores the damage Zika can have on unborn babies. Our state’s work against Zika has never been more vital.”

DSHS is coordinating with Harris County Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to follow the case.

So far, 59 cases of Zika virus disease have been reported in Texas, including three confirmed cases of Zika in pregnant women. All three are related to travel abroad to areas with active Zika transmission. So far there have been no reported cases of Zika virus transmitted by mosquitoes in Texas.

Nevertheless, health officials are urging all citizens to protect themselves from mosquito bites by applying EPA-approved insect repellent, wearing pants and shirts that cover exposed skin, and using screens or closing windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home.

Also, health officials suggest removing standing water in and around the home, such as water in cans, toys, tires, plant saucers and any container that can hold water. Trash cans or containers where water can collect should be kept covered.

Abbott treated for burns

Gov. Greg Abbott suffered second- and third-degree burns caused by scalding water on his legs and feet while vacationing with his wife in Wyoming last week.

Abbott was transported to the burn unit at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where on July 12 he underwent a successful skin graft procedure. He was discharged from the facility on July 15.

AG warns of email scams

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on July 13 posted a warning about “suspicious e-mails containing malicious software seemingly coming from the Office of the Attorney General.”

The e-mail claims to come from the AG’s Consumer Protection Division to inform business owners that a complaint has been filed against their organization. A link to the complaint is provided and once clicked on, it downloads harmful software onto the computer.

To read the full article, subscribe to the Canton Herald or pick up a copy from one of our vendors.