COVID-19 no longer poses threat to pregnant women, newborns in UAE

Syed Shayaan Bakht, Staff Reporter

The UAE Government said pregnant women are no longer vulnerable to COVID-19 infections.

During the media briefing on COVID-19 latest development in the country, the authorities said, “Pregnant women are not within the most vulnerable groups to develop complications according to the available data and studies, and COVID-19 does not pose a threat to them, their fetus or newborn child.”

The health officials said, “We advise pregnant women to exercise caution, follow precautionary measures and take vitamins and supplements according to the instructions of doctors.”

Women should eat a balanced diet that boosts their immunity while continuing physical exercise.

Health officials said, “The vaccine will not be given to children or pregnant women until safety is assured, after that the scope of vaccinations will be expanded to include other groups.”

The Ministry of Health and Prevention said that 15 medical centres have been allocated for pregnant women across the seven emirates to avoid the risk of exposing them to COVID-19.

The ministry said more than one health centre in each emirate will provide follow-up health care services to would-be mothers with the highest international standards.

The ministry said, “We have designated specific health centres in each emirate to provide care services for pregnant women that follow the highest safety standards to reduce the chances of transmitting the infection.”

It is believed that Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah have four centres for pregnant women and Ras Al Khaimah. Ajman has two centres. Dubai residents are directed to visit the family medical centre to be allocated in Sharjah.