COVID-19 vaccination of pregnant women: state-of-the-art
Despite efforts made by the world community to battle the novel coronavirus infection, we are still unable to take complete control of virus spread. One of the causes of this issue is inadequate coverage of vaccination. Meanwhile, disease course in specific populations is associated with the risks of severe complications and lethal outcome. Infection of pregnant women is of particular concern. This paper addresses recent data on vaccination against the COVID-19 infection in pregnant women, including those with risk of severe disease course and unfavorable outcome. Monitoring the health of women infected with SARS-CoV-2 during gestation demonstrates unfavorable effects of the COVID-19 infection on the course and outcome of pregnancy. On the other hand, observational programs have demonstrated that vaccination has no effects on pregnancy course and perinatal outcomes. A view of the WHO and professional associations on the vaccination of pregnant women, particularly those from risk groups of severe COVID-19 course, is discussed. The importance of a personalized and balanced approach to COVID-19 vaccination of pregnant women involving the assessment of risks and benefits for the mother and child is emphasized.