MIAMI: A baby born with brain defects caused by the mosquito-borne Zika virus has died in Texas, marking the southern state’s first Zika-related death, officials said Tuesday.

The mother had become infected with Zika while travelling in Latin America, and gave birth to the baby in Harris County near Houston, according to the state health department.

“The baby passed away shortly after birth and is the first Zika-related death reported in Texas,” said a statement.

“Recent test results confirmed the baby’s condition and link to Zika. The mother and baby are classified as travel-related cases, and there is no additional associated risk in Texas.”—AFP