Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy increases likelihood of flu attack: Study

Women are more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections caused by a variety of viruses during pregnancy, including influenza A virus, respiratory syncytial virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy increases likelihood of flu attack: Study A new study conducted by Dr. Natalie Johnson, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at Texas A&M University School of Public Health, found that exposure to ultrafine particles during pregnancy increases the risk of respiratory virus infection. Among those are increased cardiac output and decreased tidal volume -- the amount of air that moves in or out of the lungs with each respiratory cycle -- as well as immunological changes such as selective modulation of immune cell subsets to protect the developing fetus.The research team also highlights that vaccination compliance during pregnancy is generally below 50 per cent, despite vaccination against influenza being safe and effective, leading to an increased risk of developing respiratory infection. A mixture of gases and tiny airborne particulate matter, which is categorized as UFPs, are critical to recognize and identify, especially to protect vulnerable populations.The research team says these findings support future clinical and regulatory interventions for protecting pregnant women and controlling UFPs. According to the researchers, it is imperative that pregnant women in urban cities, where influenza and UFPs are more prevalent, are provided vaccinations and preventive measures limiting UFP exposure to protect maternal health.