CEBU CITY – Health authorities in Central Visayas are now investigating a “unique” case of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) transmission to a newborn infant in this city.
“The presence of a newborn case in the region needs further validation on how transmission occurred since the mother tested negative,” Dr. Jaime Bernadas, Department of Health (DOH)-Central Visayas regional director, said in a statement.
Bernadas said there are studies that could back the possibility of “transmission from infected mothers to newborn infants” or what they call in medical science as “vertical transmission.”
According to a report, the newborn baby tested positive of Covid-19 is from this city. However, Cebu City Health Department personnel are yet to release details of the case.
“Pregnant women belong to a special group that is at a higher risk of contracting Covid-19 compared to non-pregnant women,” Bernadas said, explaining further that “their pregnancy makes them more vulnerable due to the increased demand on nutrition and lowered immune system status as the body accommodates the growing fetus.”
Facing such high risk, he said pregnant women are advised to stay at home, avoid crowds and wear a mask when going out.
“Rest assured, existing protocols are in place. We call on all pregnant women to continue monitoring themselves in these times that put them at a more than usual vulnerability,” Bernadas said, encouraging pregnant women to reach out to caregivers for their health concerns.
He advised individuals who are taking care of or living with pregnant women “to exert extra care to prevent transmitting any infection to them by practicing proper handwashing, social or physical distancing and not going near them if you are not feeling well”.
“Let us keep both the mother and the unborn baby safe,” Bernadas said.
He also advised the public “not to treat those who are at risk or have been diagnosed with Covid-19 with discrimination,” and to instead give them kindness and understanding. (PNA)
