| Vertical Transmission of Disease: It describes the transfer of virus from parent to offspring and may be acquired from either parent. Via the mother this may occur (i) In utero, across the placenta. (ii) Intrapartum, during birth through an infected birth canal. (iii) Postpartum, after delivery by breast-feeding. |
- A study published in the U.S. CDC’s journal Emerging Infectious Diseases has found evidence of prolonged shedding of the Oropouche virus (OROV) in a person who had travelled to Cuba.
- The virus was detected in blood, serum, urine, and semen samples, raising concerns about potential transmission risks.
- Higher levels of virus shedding were found in semen than in urine or blood.
- Researchers suggest prolonged persistence in semen may indicate replication in the male genital tract or passive diffusion.
- OROV infection may be harmful during pregnancy, with reports of adverse outcomes such as spontaneous abortions.
- There may be potential person-to-person transmission through sexual contact.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the possibility of vertical transmission of the virus.
(Refer August Magazine for more information)
Dig Deeper: Read about various sexually transmitted viral diseases.
