Which maternal infection can lead to a loss of immunity in infants, potentially resulting in intellectual disabilities?

Maternal Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is linked to a significant risk of compromised immune function in infants born to infected mothers. HIV can be transmitted from the mother to the child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. When an infant is born with HIV, their immune system may become severely weakened, making them more susceptible to opportunistic infections and diseases.

In addition to the immediate health effects, the impact of maternal HIV on an infant can extend to long-term cognitive and developmental issues. The virus may disrupt normal brain development, potentially leading to developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. AIDS-related complications can further contribute to challenges in cognitive functioning as the child grows, making early intervention and support critical for those affected.

While other infections listed can have serious health impacts on infants, HIV stands out in the context of immunity loss and its association with intellectual disabilities.