H1N1: A Serious Threat to Pregnant Women
Reported May 25, 2010
(Ivanhoe Newswire) — A new study shows the H1N1 virus may be particularly dangerous for pregnant women. In fact, expecting women who contract the virus are at a greater risk for complications such as fetal distress, premature delivery, emergency C-sections and even fetal death.
Researchers from the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center and Kings County Hospital Center, Brooklyn analyzed data from 18 patients who were admitted to the hospital for H1N1 between May 18 and June 24, 2009. They then compared the results to published reports of the H1N1 outbreak and reports of flu pandemics in 1918 and 1957.
Three of the 18 patients were admitted to an intensive care unit. Six of the patients delivered their babies prematurely. Of the six premature births, five involved fetal distress, and four were delivered by an emergency C-section. Two fetal deaths were recorded, but no maternal deaths were reported. There was also no increased risk of congenital birth defects among the babies.
Historically, pregnant women were more likely to be hospitalized and suffer from increased illness and mortality during flu pandemics.
Based on the findings, the authors of the study conclude, “H1N1 poses a serious health threat to pregnant patients.” They also say early antiviral treatment may improve maternal outcomes for pregnant women who contract H1N1.
SOURCE: Archives of Internal Medicine, 2010; 170: 868-873
