International Prenatal Infection Prevention Awareness Month

Prenatal infections include viruses or bacterial illnesses that are passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or even during the delivery process. It is estimated that approximately 700,000 infants die from infections each year. Here are some ways you can be proactive during pregnancy to avoid prenatal infection.

5 Tips to Avoid Infection During Pregnancy

1. Get Vaccinated! - As antibodies pass from mother to baby it is important that you have the necessary vaccinations complete. Some vaccines such as the flu shot and Tdap vaccine can even be given during pregnancy allowing for better protection from the flu for both mom and baby!
2. Avoid Unpasteurized Milk/Dairy - Unpasteurized (raw) milk has not been heated to high temperatures allowing for bacteria to be killed. Therefore, it is much easier to ingest bacteria and develop an infection by consuming unpasteurized milk and foods made from it.
3. Fully Cook Your Meat - Undercooked or processed meats such as deli meat, hot dogs and raw fish can also contain bacteria. It is important to fully cook your meat until there is no pink inside before eating it.
4. Limit Contact with Young Children - As a mother this can be difficult, but avoid contact with urine and saliva from babies and children. One of the most common prenatal infections, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), is present in high amount in children. Refrain from kissing, sharing food, and wiping tears of young children. 
5. Go to All of Your Prenatal Checkups! - Your doctor will likely test for the common prenatal infections during your visits. Once diagnosed, most prenatal infections are preventable and can be treated before the baby is even born. 

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with a UCR Health OB/GYN, click here or give us a call at 1-844-827-8000.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.