Mum and baby fine following Brussels’ first corona birth

A woman with the coronavirus has given birth to a healthy baby at the Delta Hospital in Auderghem. She had no idea that she was infected with Covid-19 until she experienced complications, and it was decided to schedule a C-section. She was tested for the virus as a precaution.

Two days later, the procedure was carried out, and the baby girl was taken away immediately after the birth. But mum, dad and baby were soon reunited. The parents have to wear surgical facemasks until clear of the virus.

“They told me that they would test me for Covid-19, and I just assumed it would be negative,” said the Brussels woman, Amandine. “When the gynaecologist told me that I had tested positive, I nearly fell over backwards.”

The procedure went well, however, and mother and daughter are doing fine. Amandine’s other two children, however, may not visit them yet.

The baby has not yet been tested for the virus, but soon will be, said hospital personnel. “We are counting our blessings,” said Amandine, “and hope that all turns out well for her.”

Photo: Thierry Roge/BELGA