A recent study has revealed that children born by C-section (cesarean delivery) have a significantly higher risk of having an ineffective measles vaccine compared to children born naturally. The study, published in the journal Nature Microbiology, found that a single dose of the double-dose measles vaccine was up to 2.6 times more likely to be ineffective in children born by C-section.
The researchers suggest that the decreased effectiveness of the measles vaccine in children born by C-section could be linked to the development of the infant’s gut microbiome. Previous studies have shown that vaginal birth transfers a greater variety of microbes from mother to baby, which helps boost the infant’s immune system. In contrast, C-section birth does not expose the baby to the same maternal microbiome, which may result in a delayed development of the gut microbiome and, consequently, a reduced immune response to vaccines.
The study highlights the importance of ensuring that children born by C-section receive both doses of the measles vaccine to ensure adequate protection against the disease. The findings also underscore the potential role of the gut microbiome in immune system development and the long-term health implications of C-section birth. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the association between C-section birth and vaccine effectiveness and to develop strategies to optimize immune responses in children born by C-section.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and its associated complications. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two doses of the measles vaccine for optimal protection. However, the study findings suggest that children born by C-section may require closer monitoring to ensure adequate vaccine response and protection against measles.
