Infants of Covid-19 infected mothers are showing compromised motor function

The current evaluation compared babies born to 21 Covid-positive pregnant women.

The 30th European Congress of Psychiatry was recently held in Budapest. An analysis presented here highlighted that babies born to mothers, who contracted Covid-19 during pregnancy, were at risk of developing neurodevelopmental outcomes at six weeks. Greater difficulties in relaxing and adapting their bodies when they are being held were seen. Infants had difficulty in controlling head and shoulder movement. This suggests a possible effect on the motor function due to Covid-19. At the same time, infants from non-infected mothers did not show these changes. Dr. Rosa Ayesa Arriola from Marques de Valdecilla University Hospital, Spain, clarifies that the above-mentioned changes may not be noticed in all babies born to mothers infected with Covid. Still, there is an increased risk to them.

The current evaluation compared babies born to 21 Covid-positive pregnant women. The mothers underwent tests to check their hormones, cortisol levels, salivary tests, and psychological questionnaires. The Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS) measures the baby’s movements and behavior. The assessment found that certain elements of the NBAS measurement were changed in 6-week-old infants who had been exposed to the Covid-19 virus. The analysis emphasizes the need to study the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on the holistic health of parents and infants.