COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination in Lactation: Assessment of adverse effects and transfer of anti-SARS-CoV2 antibodies from mother to child.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Data regarding the rate of adverse effects observed in the lactating mother-infant dyad and their immune response to COVID-19 mRNA vaccination during lactation are needed to inform vaccination guidelines.

Methods

From a prospective cohort of 50 lactating individuals who received mRNA-based vaccines for COVID-19 (mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2), blood and milk samples were collected prior to first vaccination dose, immediately prior to 2nd dose, and 4-10 weeks after 2nd dose. Symptoms in mother and infant were assessed by detailed questionnaires. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels in blood and milk were measured by Pylon 3D automated immunoassay and ELISA, and PEGylated proteins in milk were measured by ELISA. Blood samples were collected from a subset of infants whose mothers received the vaccine during lactation or pregnancy (4-15 weeks after mothers' 2nd dose).

Results

No severe maternal or infant adverse effects were reported in this cohort. Two mothers and two infants were diagnosed with COVID-19 during the study period. Vaccine-related products, PEGylated proteins, were not found at significant levels in milk after vaccination. After vaccination, levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM significantly increased in maternal plasma and there was significant transfer of anti-SARS-CoV-2-Receptor Binding Domain (anti-RBD) IgA and IgG antibodies to milk. Milk IgA levels after 2nd dose were negatively associated with infant age. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies were not detected in the plasma of infants whose mothers were vaccinated during lactation.

Conclusions

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines generate robust immune responses in plasma and milk of lactating individuals without severe adverse effects reported.

SUBMITTER: Golan Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8351783 | biostudies-literature |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature