The SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 infection can be passed from mother to baby before, during and after birth, new research shows - but such events are rare.
Research Findings: Mother-to-child transmission of COVID-19 is possible but rare
Published March 18, 2022 11:49
Less than two percent of babies born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection also test positive for the virus, but are more likely to test positive when mothers have a hard time of COVID-19 or have been diagnosed after giving birth.
Experts also found that vaginal delivery and breastfeeding did not increase the likelihood of a positive SARS-CoV-2 test in babies whose mothers have an infection.
An international research team, led by the WHO Collaboration Center for Global Women's Health at the University of Birmingham, published its results in BMJ after analyzing data from around the world on more than 14,000 babies born to mothers with COVID-19.
Overall, 1.8% of the 14,271 babies born to mothers infected with SARS-CoV-2 were PCR positive for the virus.
Since babies of mothers with severe SARS-CoV-2 are more likely to test positive, the research team recommends testing and closely monitoring the health of these babies after birth. Vaccination during pregnancy should be further encouraged to prevent infection and severe disease in the mothers.
Source: ScienceDaily
