Looking after yourself and your baby

Infections and precautions in pregnancy

Coronavirus and pregnancy

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new virus and we are still learning how it may affect you and your baby.

There is currently no cure, treatment or vaccine to prevent COVID-19. To reduce your chance of getting the virus, follow prevention measures

• wash your hands regularly and frequently – use soap and water for 20 seconds or alcohol-based hand sanitiser/gel
• use social and physical distancing (stay 1.5 metres away from other people)
• avoid anyone who has a fever, cough or symptoms of a cold or chest infection
• avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Regularly check the COVID-19 pregnant and breastfeeding women page for updated information.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

What is CMV?

CMV is a common viral infection especially among young children. Congenital CMV occurs when the infection is passed across the placenta from a pregnant woman to her developing baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should have a blood test to screen for CMV.

The best way to reduce the risk of congenital CMV is for pregnant women to avoid exposure to CMV by:

• regular hand washing – especially after contact with young children, changing nappies, touching a young child’s nose or face and handling children’s toys or dummies
• not sharing food or drinks with young children
• avoiding contact with saliva when kissing a child
• washing children’s toys and other surfaces that come into contact with children’s urine, mucous or saliva with detergent.

More information: NHMRC Staying Healthy: Preventing infectious diseases in early childhood education and care services

Gardening during pregnancy

It is important to wear gloves when gardening and wash hands afterwards.

Toxoplasmosis

Cats can be a source of Toxoplasmosis – a serious infection that can cause defects or death in your baby. It is important to avoid contact with cats and use gloves when handling cat litter.

In this guide:

1. Healthy eating during pregnancy
2. How much weight should I gain?
3. Food Safety in pregnancy
4. Exercise during pregnancy
5. Perineal massage
6. Medications, alcohol, and smoking during pregnancy
7. Vaccinations during pregnancy
8. Infections and precautions in pregnancy

Print entire guide

• Previous ( https://oss-uat.clients.squiz.net/health/children/pregnancy/antenatal-information/looking-after-yourself-and-your-baby/vaccinations-during-pregnancy )