In Russia, more than half of individuals with immune system conditions have refused or delayed vaccination against COVID-19, according to a recent survey cited by a major news outlet and based on data from a national patient association. The findings show that a significant portion of participants did not begin vaccination, and that new infections occurred in roughly every second participant who had not been vaccinated. Despite this hesitancy, international health authorities, including the World Health Organization, have advised that this group should receive a COVID-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications.
Separately, new findings from a study conducted in Miami indicate that two newborns were born with brain injuries linked to the mother contracting the virus during pregnancy. The research was carried out by a consortium affiliated with a prominent university health system and a leading medical school in Miami.
The study notes that one infant died at about one year of age. Researchers concluded that the virus can cross the placenta during pregnancy and potentially lead to brain damage in newborns, underscoring the importance of protecting pregnant individuals from infection and monitoring outcomes closely.