Which disease can be transmitted from mother to child during gestation?

The transmission of HIV from mother to child during gestation occurs when the virus crosses the placental barrier and infects the fetus. This can happen at various points during pregnancy, including during labor and delivery. HIV is known to be a vertical transmission disease, meaning it can be passed from an infected mother to her child. This aspect of HIV transmission is a significant concern in maternal and child health, as it has implications for treatment and prevention.

In contrast, while other diseases listed can have maternal-fetal implications, their primary modes of transmission do not typically include direct transmission from mother to child during gestation in the same manner as HIV. For example, influenza can be transmitted via respiratory droplets after birth, malaria primarily involves transmission through mosquito bites, and certain forms of hepatitis can be transmitted during childbirth or through breast milk but are less commonly associated with in utero transmission compared to HIV.