Infants exposed to the new coronavirus in utero are more likely to be diagnosed in the first year after delivery, compared with babies who were not exposed to the virus, US researchers wrote in the latest issue of JAMA Network Open. Neurodevelopmental disorders. New research has re-emphasized the importance of vaccinating pregnant women during pregnancy, and heralds the possibility that babies born during the Covid-19 pandemic may grow up with more symptoms.
While neurodevelopmental disorders are often diagnosed in the third trimester or even some time after the baby is born, neurodevelopmental disorders associated with language and motor function problems are "significantly more common" in babies exposed to the new coronavirus in utero, the researchers said. Even taking into account other factors that may influence neurodevelopmental disorders, such as race, ethnicity, maternal age, offspring sex, and preterm birth.
The findings also highlight another set of dangers that the COVID-19 pandemic may pose to pregnant women and their babies, the researchers emphasized. Pregnant women infected with the new coronavirus are at higher risk of severe illness and death, are more likely to give birth prematurely, and are more likely to develop serious complications. Additionally, premature babies are more prone to short-term and long-term health problems, including behavioral and heart problems. While vaccination does not eliminate all risks of infection, it has been repeatedly shown to be effective in reducing associated risks.