Coronavirus

Risks for pregnant women, babies & children

The prevention of the transmission of the coronavirus infection is the main topic these days. There is a lot of talk about the general measures we can take to prevent the transmission of the coronavirus infection among the general population. Although this infection has more serious manifestations in the case of people over 60 years old, and especially in the age group 70-80 years old, it is important that a special category of the population shows increased attention. Pregnant women, babies and small children belong to this category.

Prevention of the transmission of the coronavirus in the case of pregnant women

According to data from the Centers For Disease Control (CDC), until now it has not been possible to highlight the fact that pregnant women present an increased risk of being affected by this coronavirus infection. Also, at this moment it cannot be stated with certainty that the infection with the coronavirus could evolve differently, if a pregnant woman is infected. Until now, there is no clear evidence regarding the possibility of the infection being transmitted from the mother, in the event that she became infected to the unborn fetus.

What we must take into account, however, is the fact that pregnant women have a high susceptibility to certain diseases, including the flu. Since the coronavirus is part of the same family as the flu viruses, it is important that pregnant women show special care during this period, so as to protect both themselves and the fetus.

When we talk about measures to prevent the transmission of the coronavirus infection, the World Health Organization, as well as the CDC, recommend some general measures, namely: covering the mouth with the hand when coughing or sneezing; if the hands are not clean, we can use the elbow. It would be ideal to avoid interaction with people who may have flu or cold symptoms, to keep a distance from those around us (minimum 1.5 - 2m), but also to respect the hygiene rules imposed by the authorities. When we talk about hygiene, hand hygiene plays an important role, which is recommended to be done with soap and water or disinfectant gels.

Ideally, during this period, the exposure of each of us in public should be limited to the maximum. This is especially true for pregnant women, who are recommended to avoid leaving home, when this is not absolutely necessary, but also to limit contact with other people, even in the comfort of their own home. However, if you have guests, it is important to keep your distance from them and to limit the access of acquaintances, in case they are carriers of the infection, even if they are asymptomatic, or with fairly reduced symptoms or even non-specific.

If a possible infection is suspected and symptoms begin to appear, it is good to first contact the family doctor or obstetrician by phone, to ask for their advice. It is not advisable to go directly to his office, as you may come into contact with other people who may be infected. The authorities have provided a special phone number that can be called to find out additional information about the coronavirus. Inform yourself properly before taking measures!

What do we do during this period if we are scheduled for birth?

To stay safe, it is important to talk to your current doctor, but also to adopt a series of special measures and precautions regarding hygiene or contact with those around you. The doctor will decide what is the best measure that is required and it is good to act accordingly. You can trust that the recommendation he will give you will be in your interest as well as that of the baby.

If you are among the people infected with the new coronavirus, there is no need to be alarmed. Inform the doctor about this possibility and wait for his instructions. If you suspect that you have fallen ill, it is advisable to limit contact with other family members as much as possible, especially if they are elderly. You can wear a medical mask to reduce the risk of transmission. Regarding a possible transmission of the infection from the mother to the fetus, currently there is not enough evidence to attest with certainty the transmission of the virus.

What can we do to protect the baby from coronavirus infection?

The World Health Organization recommends starting breastfeeding approximately one hour after birth. This is due to the fact that breast milk is particularly effective in creating a natural immunity for the little one, at the same time ensuring protection against infectious diseases. Considering the fact that antibodies and immunity factors are transmitted from mother to baby through breast milk, it is important that especially during this period the baby is breastfed.

Of course, it is recommended that hygiene measures be increased when interacting with the baby, so as to limit as much as possible its exposure to possible infectious agents. We can use a medical mask and it is also recommended to sanitize the surfaces with disinfectant solutions very frequently.

The surfaces must be disinfected correctly and frequently

In order to limit the transmission of the infection, specialists recommend us to disinfect the surfaces frequently. Be careful to use substances that are effective, especially in the little one's room. You can place a dispenser with antiseptic gel in the house, so that you can clean your hands as often as needed. Do not forget - the little one is particularly sensitive, and it is good not to expose him to unnecessary dangers, even if, until now, this infection has not had serious manifestations in children or babies. It is better to prevent than to treat. In addition, make sure that the baby is fed correctly, that he rests enough, so that he can create an optimal immunity, but also take care of yourself. Be attentive to any possible signs and symptoms that may indicate a possible illness. If they happen, don't panic. Call your family doctor and ask for his advice. Do not go to the emergency room or the doctor's office, as the risk of contracting the infection increases exponentially in these units.

So, whether you are pregnant or already have a baby, we recommend that you keep calm and get informed properly, from official sources, about the measures that are required. Try to help those around you to protect themselves, offering them information and advice. Apply all hygiene and disinfection measures indicated by the authorities, and try to limit as much as possible contact with other people, apart from close family members.

Although children and young people are affected to a rather small extent by this infection, the situation changes radically when we talk about adults and especially the age group over 60 and 70 years old. So, it is important to protect ourselves and our loved ones in a proper, responsible manner, for as long as possible.

The safety and well-being of all AnneBebe & Camera Bebelusului customers are always a priority for us. We are actively monitoring the situation related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and taking measures to help protect our communities.

Stay informed and take care of your health and that of your family!