Could Karl Stefanovic miss the birth of his baby with Jasmine Yarbrough? Today show host reveals the strict hospital lockdown rules the couple have to follow as his wife delivers their first child
Karl Stefanovic and Jasmine Yarbrough are facing the unfortunate reality of welcoming a child during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Tuesday, Karl revealed the hospital lockdown precautions he’ll have to take as his wife gives birth in May.
Appearing on Today, the 45-year-old told co-host Ally Langdon that the hospital will only allow him to visit the birthing suite if he isn’t showing any symptoms of coronavirus.
‘I’m not allowed to leave’: On Tuesday’s episode of Today, Karl Stefanovic, 45, (left) revealed the hospital lockdown precautions he’ll have to take as his wife Jasmine Yarbrough, 36, gives birth in May
If Karl passes this test, he will have to follow strict lockdown measures.
‘I’m not allowed to leave. I’m not allowed to come to and from the hospital. I’m not allowed to go out into the public for long periods of time and come back,’ Karl said.
‘It’s got to be a lockdown situation. That’s what most hospitals are looking at now here in Australia,’ Karl continued, adding: ‘It’s very difficult for women giving birth at this point in time in this country.’
Lockdown: ‘I’m not allowed to come to and from the hospital. I’m not allowed to go out into the public for long periods of time and come back,’ Karl said
Ally shared her sympathy for the expectant couple, telling Karl: ‘I’ve been feeling for you guys. I’ve got a mate who just had a baby, they are not allowed to see anyone at home for six weeks.’
Karl confirmed that he and Jasmine will also have to follow this rule when the time comes.
While the government has not placed specific coronavirus lockdown rules upon birthing centres, hospitals across Australia are taking extra precautions to help protect the health and safety of their patients.
Many hospitals are reducing the amount of visitors a new mother can see after giving birth.
Some hospitals are also letting mothers go home earlier than usual after giving birth, provided that she and the baby are doing well.
According to Health Direct, based on the current findings, pregnant women are at no greater risk than anyone else of catching COVID-19.
However, any respiratory illness can cause serious complications to a pregnancy.
It is therefore advised that pregnant women take extra precautions in maintaining good hygiene and social distancing to reduce the risk of contracting coronavirus.
Last month, Karl revealed to The Kyle and Jackie O Show that Jasmine was concerned that he would be exposed to COVID-19 at Channel Nine Sydney Studios.
‘She’s really worried about me bringing it back to the house [from work], so I’m taking as many precautions as I can,’ he admitted.
‘She’s really worried about me bringing it back to the house from work:’ Last month, Karl revealed to The Kyle and Jackie O Show that Jasmine was concerned that he would be exposed to COVID-19 at Channel Nine Sydney Studios. Pictured: Jasmine and Karl
While Jasmine has been self-isolating at home, Karl has been hosting the Today show each morning at Nine’s headquarters in Willoughby.
‘She’s more worried than anyone, being pregnant,’ Karl said. ‘I’ve got to be really cautious out there. It’s a real worry for anyone.’
As of Tuesday morning, there are 5,795 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Australia, including 41 deaths.
Pandemic: As of Tuesday morning, there are 5,795 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Australia, including 41 deaths
