DBT and NII study: Transmission of chicken pox virus during pregnancy to child

The study of DBT and NII have found that women having chickenpox infection may transmit their infection to babies during their pregnancy. This stimulates babies’ immunity and protects them. A person being infected by the virus and treated gains immunity lifelong. This immunity is transferred to babies during pregnancy. Also, if a mother was vaccinated in her childhood, she is said to be immune to the disease. Research says that this immunity is transferred to the child as well.

Highlights of the study

The researchers of National Institute of Immunology (NII) and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) found that the transfer of viral DNA from mother to child during their pregnancy is long lasting. Currently, it is understood that mothers transfer several antibodies to babies that lasts for 12 to 15 months. However, the new study says that this scenario is different in case of chickenpox. The study also showed that reactivation of chickenpox can be induced by stress of pregnancy.

Chicken Pox

It is a highly contagious disease caused by Varicella Zoster Virus. According to WHO, around 140 million people are affected by the disease all over the world annually. In developed countries, incidence of the disease is 16 cases per 1000 people. Out of these, 90% of the cases are reported in children.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2019