Pregnancy & Childbirth

The infection A2Z web series is currently in development and upon completion will consist of ten websites covering the key principles of infection prevention and control.

Details of the following website launches will be regularly updated on the infection A2Z home page:

- Childhood Diseases
- Decontamination
- Healthcare Practices
- Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Sexual Health
- Waste Management
- Communicable Diseases
- Food Safety
- Emergency Planning
- Environmental Hazards.



 

 

 

 

 

 
A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z

Web links
www.hpa.org.uk/infections/topics_az/list.htm
www.netdoctor.co.uk
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk
www.nhs24.com
www.prodigy.nhs.uk
www.cdc.gov
www.who.org
www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus
www.medicinenet.com

References
CHIN J ed (2000) Control of communicable diseases manual. 17th ed. American Public Health Association.


 

The pregnant mother
The newborn baby


The pregnant mother

Human Coxsackie B viruses are responsible for the onset of many diseases, such as:

  • Coxsackie carditis (viral carditis, enteroviral carditis)
  • viral meningitis
  • myalgia.

In adults, most diseases caused by Coxsackie B viruses are mild. However Coxsackie B viruses may increase the chance of spontaneous abortion, infection in the foetus or stillbirth. Due to the effects on the newborn baby, it is important that mothers who are near term avoid contact with individuals with a suspected Coxsackie viral infection.


The newborn baby

Coxsackie carditis is an uncommon disease that is usually caused by the Coxsackie B virus. Although not generally critical in adults, it is a serious, potentially fatal disease in newborns, where the myocardium can be affected. In this vulnerable group it can cause fever and lethargy, which can quickly lead to heart failure. This can be fatal, or recovery may take place over a few weeks.

The virus can be transmitted from the mother during birth or from other infected individuals after delivery. For this reason it is important that individuals with suspected Coxsackie B virus infections should be excluded from maternity and nursery units in hospitals.

This content is not intended nor does it replace individual professional advice. Please contact a healthcare professional or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 46 47) NHS Direct Wales (0845 46 47) or NHS 24 in Scotland (08454 24 24 24).

last reviewed 01 May 2005
last updated 11 May 2005

 
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