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SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination During Pregnancy: A Complex Decision.
Elizabeth Wenqian Wang1, Jacqueline G Parchem2, Robert L Atmar3
1Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, Towson, Maryland, USA.
Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals can consider SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. COVID-19 risks during pregnancy likely exceed potential vaccine risks, despite limited specific data.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- The introduction of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines in late 2020/early 2021 prompted guidance from professional societies for pregnant and breastfeeding populations.
- A significant challenge for this demographic is the limited data on SARS-CoV-2 vaccine safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy in pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a balanced perspective on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.
- To weigh the known risks of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in pregnancy against the potential, less-understood risks of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Main Methods:
- This analysis is based on existing data regarding vaccine safety and efficacy in nonpregnant populations.
- Risk-benefit assessment considering the clinical presentation and outcomes of COVID-19 in pregnant individuals.
Main Results:
- SARS-CoV-2 vaccines demonstrate reassuring safety and efficacy profiles in the general, nonpregnant population.
- The known risks associated with COVID-19 during pregnancy are substantial.
Conclusions:
- The potential risks of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in pregnant and breastfeeding individuals are not yet fully elucidated.
- However, the established risks of COVID-19 during pregnancy likely outweigh the potential risks of vaccination, supporting informed decision-making.
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