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Placental transfers

A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of twenty-eight WNV-infected mothers and 25 WNV-uninfected mothers found "There were no differences in pregnancy and delivery characteristics except that infected mothers had a higher incidence of febrile illnesses and used more medications. Birth weight, length, head circumference, and rate of congenital malformations were similar in babies born to WNV-infected and WNV-uninfected mothers. Follow-up physical exams were generally normal. The Bayley-III assessments, available for 17 children born to mothers with WNV illness, showed performance at or above age level across domains (Pridjian)."

FAQ WNV Pregnancy (CDC)

I am pregnant. Am I at higher risk for getting infected with West Nile virus?

No. Pregnant women are not at higher risk for West Nile virus infection.

I am pregnant and was just diagnosed with West Nile virus infection. Is my baby at risk of infection?

The risk appears to be very low that a woman who is infected with West Nile virus during pregnancy will transmit the virus to her fetus or newborn. Only a few cases of West Nile virus in newborns have been reported. Pregnant women should take precautions to reduce their risk for West Nile virus infection by avoiding mosquitoes, wearing protective clothing, and using insect repellent.

If I am pregnant or breastfeeding, should I use insect repellents?

Yes. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the only way to prevent infection with West Nile virus. In addition to wearing protective clothing such as long-sleeve shirts and long pants, use insect repellents. Repellents containing active ingredients which have been registered with the EPA are considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Instant feedback:

Studies have shown no abnormalities in babies born to WNV infected mothers.

References

CDC. West Nile Virus Home. Frequently Asked Questions. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding. Retrieved 6/15/2023, https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/faq/pregnancy.html.

Pridjian G, Sirois PA, McRae S, Hinckley AF, Rasmussen SA, et al, (2016). Prospective Study of Pregnancy and Newborn Outcomes in Mothers with West Nile Illness during Pregnancy. Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol. 2016 August; 106(8): 716–723.