Question:

Which virus among the following is least likely to cross the placenta?

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Neonatal infection here happens mainly during delivery, not in the womb.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Rubella
  • Herpes simplex
  • HIV
  • HBV
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: The question asks which virus is least likely to cross the placenta, i.e. least likely to cause intrauterine (transplacental) infection.
Step 2: Rubella is a classic teratogen that readily crosses the placenta in the first trimester, causing congenital rubella syndrome.
Step 3: HIV is transmitted to the fetus by all three routes, including transplacental spread in utero, in addition to intrapartum and breastfeeding routes.
Step 4: HBV can also be transmitted in utero, although the major route is perinatal (intrapartum) exposure.
Step 5: Herpes simplex virus is transmitted to the neonate mainly during passage through an infected birth canal (intrapartum), while transplacental (intrauterine) transmission is rare. Hence HSV is the least likely of these to cross the placenta.
Conclusion: The correct answer is option 2, Herpes simplex, matching the printed key.
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