Q1. What effect does coronavirus have on pregnant women?
Generally, pregnant women do not appear to be more likely to be severely unwell than other healthy adults if they develop the new coronavirus. It is expected the large majority of pregnant women will experience only mild or moderate cold/flu like symptoms.
More severe symptoms such as pneumonia appear to be more common in older people, those with weakened immune systems or long-term conditions. As yet, there is no evidence that pregnant women who get this infection are more at risk of serious complications than any other healthy individuals.
Q2. What can I do to reduce my risk of catching coronavirus?
The most important thing to do is to follow https://health.go.ug/publications/guidelines (Ministry of Health).
For pregnant women, this includes:
• Regular hand washing
• Use a tissue when you or anyone in your family coughs or sneezes, discard this and wash your hands
• Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus. These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough
• Avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible
• Work from home, where possible.
• Avoid large and small gatherings in public spaces, noting that pubs, restaurants, leisure centers and similar venues are currently shut as infections spread easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
• Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media.
Q3. What do I need to do now?
As a precaution, you should follow government advice about social distancing; stay away from public places and avoid anyone who has symptoms suggestive of coronavirus.
If you are in your third trimester (more than 28 weeks pregnant) you should be particularly attentive to social distancing and minimizing contact with others.
