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Babies exposed to the Covid-19 virus while in the womb may be at higher risk of lacking social skills and having breathing problems, according to a study. However, researchers from the University of Bristol, UK noted that the \u201clong-term outcomes\u201d remain unclear.<\/p>\n
The team enrolled children (96) with and without (243) antenatal or neonatal exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection. They defined antenatal and neonatal SARS-CoV-2 exposure as infants born to mothers hospitalised with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection between 14 and 36 weeks gestation and infants admitted to the hospital with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection within the first 28 days after birth. Babies exposed to Covid infection \u201cwere at greater risk of delayed social-emotional development, had a greater prevalence of respiratory symptoms and increased health care usage\u201d compared to those who were not exposed, revealed the study published in the journal eClinical Medicine.<\/p>\n
The researchers speculate that this may \u201ccreate difficulties later in childhood\u201d. \u201cChildren’s ability to develop positive peer relationships and academic success\u201d may be impacted due to the social-emotional delay in infancy, said Dr Ela Chakkarapani, Associate Professor of Neonatal Neuroscience at the University of Bristol.<\/p>\n
The researchers called for larger studies and longer-term follow-ups to confirm and understand this risk. Meanwhile, Dr Ela advised concerned parents to check with the doctor on the \u201clung function\u201d of their kids, if exposed to Covid.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n