ASA Monitor May 2024, Vol. 88, 27.
A study conducted by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has found that women receiving mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccinations or boosters during pregnancy provide their infants with robust protection against symptomatic COVID-19 for at least six months after birth. The study underscores the importance of pregnant individuals receiving both vaccinations and boosters to ensure infants are born with lasting immunity until they’re eligible for vaccination. No vaccines are currently available for those under 6 months old. Previous results from the Multisite Observational Maternal and Infant COVID-19 Vaccine (MOMI-Vax) study indicated that newborns of vaccinated mothers had antibodies in their cord blood, suggesting some protection. However, the duration and efficacy of this protection were unknown. The study analyzed data from 475 infants born to mothers enrolled in the MOMI-Vax study, revealing that newborns with high antibody levels at birth had better protection against COVID-19 during their first six months. Infants whose mothers received a booster during pregnancy showed higher antibody levels and greater protection compared to those whose mothers only received two doses. None of the infants in the study required hospitalization for COVID-19, highlighting the benefits of maternal vaccination. While older individuals should continue following CDC guidelines for vaccinations, this research emphasizes the significant benefits for newborns.
Source: asamonitor.pub/3TB33ks