Pregnancy's immune mystery: why flu hits harder than COVID

NCT ID NCT04962477

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at why pregnant women tend to get more severe flu but not worse COVID-19. Researchers collected nasal brush samples and blood from 48 pregnant and non-pregnant women to compare how their immune systems respond to these viruses. The goal is to understand the protective and risk factors in the nose during pregnancy.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this research could help explain why pregnancy changes immune responses to respiratory viruses, potentially guiding future treatments or preventive strategies.
What could go wrong: This is a small observational study (48 participants) that only looks at immune markers, not treatments. Findings may not apply to all pregnant women or other viruses.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for INNATE INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Inflammation pregnancy disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INNATE INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE PREGNANCY RELATED

Contacts and locations

Locations

Washington University in St. Louis

St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.