The pregnant healthcare worker: fact and fiction.

Abstract

A pregnant healthcare worker (HCW) may be at risk of occupational exposure to pathogens associated with increased maternal morbidity and mortality as well as perinatal complications. In this article, we review recent literature on infectious diseases commonly encountered in the healthcare setting and of highest concern for a pregnant HCW, focusing on prevention and management of exposures. Pregnancy does not seem to be an independent risk factor for occupationally acquired infectious diseases. Vaccination and standard precautions continue to be the most effective means of preventing transmission to HCWs. Pandemic 2009 influenza A (H1N1) is associated with increased risk of fetal death, highlighting the importance of influenza vaccination. A recent meta-analysis highlights the safety of influenza vaccination during pregnancy. New treatments for hepatitis C have not been studied in pregnancy but pose an important area for research and advancement. Cytomegalovirus immunoglobulin may play a role in postexposure prophylaxis but recent results are inconclusive. Primary prevention with vaccination and use of appropriate infection control precautions is imperative for prevention of occupationally acquired infectious diseases. Pregnant HCWs with occupational exposure to communicable diseases should be evaluated immediately for appropriate postexposure prophylaxis and followed for development of active infection.