Which maternal health issue can result in hearing and visual impairments in infants?

Maternal rubella (German measles) virus is known to cause serious developmental issues in infants if a mother contracts the virus during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. One of the most significant risks associated with maternal rubella is the possibility of congenital rubella syndrome, which can lead to a range of congenital defects, including hearing loss and visual impairments, such as cataracts, retinopathy, and other ocular problems. The virus can affect the developing fetus and result in these sensory impairments as part of its broader spectrum of potential health consequences.

Understanding the implications of maternal health on fetal development is crucial, especially in the context of infectious diseases like rubella, which have proven links to specific birth defects. This emphasizes the importance of prenatal care and vaccination to prevent rubella infection during pregnancy.