According to a new study published in the journal Particle and Fibre Toxicology, exposure to ultrafine particles during pregnancy increased the risk of respiratory viral infection. Air pollution is an environmental health issue and is responsible for one in nine deaths, with an annual premature mortality rate of more than 7 million worldwide.

On the other hand, UFPs are a mixture of gases and microscopic airborne particulate matter. It is important to recognize and identify such particles to protect vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women.

Women are more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections caused by a variety of viruses during pregnancy, including influenza A virus (IAV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Furthermore, influenza affects pregnant women disproportionately, resulting in a more than 10-fold increase in hospitalization risk.

In the study, the team pointed out that increased cardiac output and decreased tidal volume, defined as the amount of air that moves in or out of the lungs with each respiratory cycle, are some of the physiological factors that explain maternal susceptibility to viral infection. Similarly, immunological changes such as the selective modulation of immune cell subsets to protect the developing fetus also increase the risk of contracting the flu.

Additionally, the team pointed out that vaccination compliance during pregnancy is generally below 50%, leading to an increased risk of developing respiratory infections. The lead author of the study noted that the findings of the study support clinical and regulatory interventions for protecting pregnant women and controlling UFPs.

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/exposure-to-air-pollution-during-pregnancy-increases-chances-for-flu-attack-study/1530495/ )