A single jab of the double-dose measles vaccine could be up to 2.6 times more likely to be completely ineffective in children born by C-section, compared to those born naturally, new research has found.
The reason for this, the researchers from the University of Cambridge UK and Fudan University China have explained, could be due to the development of the infant’s gut microbiome as a result of which the child’s immune system does not produce antibodies to fight against a measles infection, and therefore, remains vulnerable to the disease. This generates interest around previous studies that say natural birth transfers a greater variety of microbes from mother to baby.
“We’ve discovered that the way we’re born — either by C-section or natural birth — has long-term consequences on our immunity to diseases as we grow up,” Henrik Salje from the University of Cambridge’s Department of Genetics and joint senior author of the study published in the journal Nature Microbiology, said. The researchers have, however, found that the second measles dose induced a robust immunity in such kids.
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This draws attention to the fact that many women are preferring to undergo c-section for childbirth instead of natural birth. “We think this means they take longer to catch up in developing their gut microbiome and with it, the ability of the immune system to be primed by vaccines against diseases including measles,” said Salje.
Measles, caused by the highly contagious measles virus, manifests with symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. It spreads through respiratory droplets, making unvaccinated individuals particularly vulnerable. Complications can range from ear infections and diarrhea to pneumonia and encephalitis, especially in malnourished children or those with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
(With inputs from PTI)
