Less than 1% of children infected from mothers with COVID-19

The findings, published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), are based on a synthesis and analysis of nearly 500 previous studies involving around 29,000 mothers.

According to Professor Shakila Thangaratinam at the University of Birmingham (UK), Team Leader, and the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center for Global Women’s Health, this is the most comprehensive study ever. to date, thereby providing the most extensive insight into the risk transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from mother to child during pregnancy.

Of the 592 infants with complete data on how and when they contracted COVID-19recorded only 7 children infected with this disease while in the womb and 2 children infected at birth.

According to scientists, the study provides reassurance for parents that less than 1% of newborns test positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus in the first 48 hours after birth. born. In addition, the team did not find any link between the infant being positive for COVID-19 and breastfeeding.

Less than 1% of infants tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 virus after being born to mothers with COVID-19. (Photo: Reuters)

Current evidence does not support measures such as cesarean section, separation from the mother immediately after birth, or formula feeding to prevent COVID-19 infection.

However, Professor Thangaratinam stated, the combined results show that infants are more likely to have severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in case the mother has to be treated in intensive care (ICU) or dies from COVID. -19.

In addition, infants are more likely to contract the disease after birth. Therefore, pregnant women and medical staff need to maintain wearing masks, as well as implement disinfection measures, ensure hygiene and limit children’s contact with many people.

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