Is it possible for a newborn to have COVID-19 after birth?
COVID-19 is uncommon in newborns born to mothers who had COVID-19 during pregnancy. Some newborns have tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after birth. It is unknown if these newborns got the virus before, during, or after birth. Most newborns who tested positive for COVID-19 had mild or no symptoms and recovered.
How does COVID-19 affect pregnant women and their babies?
Some research suggests that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to have a premature birth and their babies are more likely to be admitted to a neonatal unit. Contact your health care provider right away if you have COVID-19 symptoms or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19 .
Do newborns contract COVID-19 before, during or after birth?
• Some newborns have tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after birth. It is unknown if these newborns got the virus before, during, or after birth.
Are infants at higher risk of COVID-19?
Although rare, children under age 1 appear to be at higher risk of severe illness with COVID-19 than older children. This is likely due to their immature immune systems and smaller airways, which make them more likely to develop breathing issues with respiratory virus infections.