LogoLogoMSF Science Portal
  • My saved items
logo

© Médecins Sans Frontières

MSF Science Portal
About MSF Science Portal
About MSF
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

v2.1.4829.produseast1

Journal Article > Case Report/Series

Delivery of an Ebola virus-positive stillborn infant in a rural community health center, Sierra Leone, January 2015

Bower H, Grass JE, Veltus E, Brault AC, Campbell S, Basile AJ, Wang D, Paddock C, Erickson BR, Salzer JS, Belser JA, Chege E, Seneca D, Saffa G, Stroeher U, Decroo T, Caleo GNC
Abstract
We report the case of an Ebola virus (EBOV) RNA-negative pregnant woman who delivered an EBOV RNA-positive stillborn infant at a community health center in rural Sierra Leone, 1 month after the mother's last possible exposure. The mother was later found to be immunoglobulins M and G positive indicating previous infection. The apparent absence of Ebola symptoms and not recognizing that the woman had previous contact with an Ebola patient led health workers performing the delivery to wear only minimal personal protection, potentially exposing them to a high risk of EBOV infection. This case emphasizes the importance of screening for epidemiological risk factors as well as classic and atypical symptoms of Ebola when caring for pregnant women, even once they have passed the typical time frame for exposure and incubation expected in nonpregnant adults. It also illustrates the need for health-care workers to use appropriate personal protection equipment when caring for pregnant women in an Ebola setting.
Countries
Sierra Leone
Subject Area
women's healthEbolapediatrics
DOI
10.4269/ajtmh.15-0619
Published Date
10-Nov-2015
PubMed ID
26556830
Languages
English
Journal
American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Volume / Issue / Pages
Volume 94, Issue 2, Pages 417-9
Dimensions Badge