A recent study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology revealed that almost 1 in 10 pregnant individuals who contracted COVID-19 developed long covid. This study shed light on the prevalence of long covid among pregnant people compared to the general population. Long covid, a condition characterized by persistent symptoms, has been a challenge for researchers since the onset of the pandemic.
The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health’s RECOVER initiative, analyzed 1,500 individuals infected with the virus during pregnancy. The participants, mostly in their 30s, were evaluated for long covid symptoms ten months after their initial infection. Common symptoms reported included fatigue, malaise, and gastrointestinal issues.
Medical experts emphasize the need for ongoing care for pregnant individuals post-COVID infection to address any chronic conditions that may arise. Further research is essential to understand the impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy and fetal development. The Biden administration has allocated additional funding for long covid research, including studies focusing on pregnant individuals.Researchers aim to explore the implications of virus exposure on fetal development and potential developmental outcomes after birth.
Vocabulary List:
- Prevalence /ˈprɛv.ə.ləns/ (noun): The commonness or widespread occurrence of a condition within a population.
- Persistent /pərˈsɪstənt/ (adjective): Continuing to exist or endure over a prolonged period.
- Evaluate /ɪˈvæl.ju.eɪt/ (verb): To assess the value or significance of something through careful examination.
- Fatigue /fəˈtiːɡ/ (noun): A state of extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion.
- Gastrointestinal /ˌɡæstroʊˌɪnˈtɛstɪnəl/ (adjective): Relating to the stomach and intestines.
- Implications /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ (noun): The possible effects or consequences of an action or decision.
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