Chlamydia in Newborns: Risks and Eye Infections

Yes, chlamydia can cause blindness in babies.

Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby during childbirth. In newborns, chlamydia can cause a variety of health problems, including eye infections, pneumonia, and sepsis.

Chlamydial eye infection, also known as neonatal chlamydial conjunctivitis, is the most common eye infection in newborns. It occurs when the baby comes into contact with chlamydia bacteria during childbirth. Symptoms of chlamydial eye infection include redness, swelling, and discharge from the eyes. If left untreated, chlamydial eye infection can lead to scarring of the cornea and blindness.

To prevent chlamydial eye infection, pregnant women should be screened for chlamydia and treated if they are infected. Babies born to mothers with chlamydia should also be treated with antibiotics to prevent infection.