The COVID vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective for pregnant people.
The new data also provides reassurance to parents that their babies will also get the shots benefits.
Researchers looked at 379 infants under the age of 6 months in 17 states.
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Of the babies in the study, 176 had COVID and 203 did not have COVID.
The babies were seen at 20 different childrens hospitals in the United States from July 2021 to January 2022.
How Is Immunity Passed?
When a vaccine is given to a pregnant person, these antibodies can cross theplacentaand get to the fetus.
As a result, Fishman pointed out, most of the hospitalizations for COVID-19 are in the unvaccinated.
Alan Fishman, MD
Most of the hospitalizations for COVID-19 are in the unvaccinated.
How Long Does Protection Last?
Antibodies from a COVID vaccine during pregnancy likely protect a newborn for about 3 to 6 months after birth.
Adults produce antibodies very well and then, indirectly, it will protect the baby, said Acuna-Villaorduna.
But those antibodies can last in the fetus for only a few months when the baby is born.
Protection can wane and go away after 6 months.
The researchers also highlighted that its not yet clear when during pregnancy is the ideal time to get vaccinated.
They do not cause infertility or pregnancy complications.
Carlos Acuna-Villaorduna, MD
Vaccines are safe during pregnancy.
Babies, too, are at high risk if they get COVID.
Vaccines are safe during pregnancy, said Acuna-Villaorduna.
Vaccines have not been associated with miscarriage events or unintended consequences.
The CDC also recommends that you get vaccinated if youre planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding.
Thats obviously challenging, said Antony.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
Yale Medicine.COVID-19 boosters: the latest advice.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Planning for pregnancy.
