CLEVELAND — As the state takes drastic measures to protect those most at risk for serious COVID-19 symptoms, one group has remained unsure if they’re more at-risk—pregnant women.

While there haven’t been many studies on the effects of COVID-19 on pregnant women, the few that are out there don’t seem to place pregnant women in the same category as the elderly or those with serious health conditions, according to Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton.

“There is not indication yet based on the one small sample study I saw,” Acton said when asked if pregnant women are more at risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms.

Still, pregnant women can sometimes have a harder time with respiratory infections, especially during the third trimester, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Acton urges pregnant women to stay in communication with their doctors and follow their advice.

“Make your circle as small as possible, follow all the precautions we’ve given you, stay at home if you at all can and limit your exposure and keep following that guidance,” Acton said.

For more information on being pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.

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