Did the Pandemic Change Babies' Microbiomes?

By Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Sept. 6, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Infants whose first year of life unfolded during the pandemic appear to have fewer types of bacteria in their gut than infants born before COVID-19 raced across the planet, a new study suggests.

Specifically, these pandemic babies had lower amounts of Pasteurellaceae and Haemophilus -- bacteria that can cause various infections -- and significantly different bacteria diversity, the researchers said.

The differences may have been caused by the social changes of the pandemic, with infants spending more time at home and less time in day care interacting with other children. Also, increased hygiene measures, dietary changes, breastfeeding practices and increased caregiver stress may have played a role, the authors speculated.