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Emerging Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy.
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|April 7, 2017
Summary
Pregnant women face increased risks from emerging infectious diseases due to immune and physiological changes. Effective management requires understanding transmission, pathogen effects, and collaboration among health experts.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Pregnant women exhibit unique vulnerabilities to infectious diseases, increasing risks for adverse outcomes.
- Pregnancy-associated immunological adaptations and physiological changes contribute to heightened susceptibility.
- Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) pose a growing threat, with recent outbreaks impacting maternal and fetal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the unique risks pregnant women face from emerging infectious diseases.
- To outline shared principles for recognizing, communicating, and mitigating EID outbreaks in pregnancy.
- To highlight the importance of collaborative efforts in managing EIDs for maternal and child health.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical and recent emerging infectious disease outbreaks (e.g., SARS, H1N1, Ebola, Zika).
- Analysis of common challenges and successful strategies in managing EIDs in pregnant populations.
- Examination of collaborative frameworks between public health agencies and professional medical societies.
Main Results:
- Specific examples of EIDs like SARS, H1N1 influenza, Ebola, and Zika virus have demonstrated significant implications for pregnant women and fetuses.
- Key principles for managing EIDs include understanding transmission dynamics, pathogen-specific maternal/fetal effects, and proactive planning.
- Collaboration between Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine has been crucial.
Conclusions:
- Knowledge gained from past EID outbreaks is vital for optimizing future responses and care for pregnant women.
- Continued collaboration and communication are essential for effective management of current and future infectious disease threats in pregnancy.
- Enhanced education and preparedness are necessary to safeguard maternal and fetal health against emerging infectious diseases.