Final answer:
The course of HCV infection acquired via maternal to fetal transmission can lead to chronic carrier status in the infant, with variable progression and severity. Infants may be asymptomatic at birth, with some spontaneously resolving the infection, while others could develop chronic liver disease. Advancements in HCV treatment have improved outcomes for these cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The expected course of HCV infection acquired via maternal to fetal transmission is generally more serious in comparison to other routes. Although vertical transmission of HCV is less common, infants born to HCV-infected mothers have a risk of becoming chronic carriers. Most cases of hepatitis C acquired through maternal-fetal transmission do not result in symptoms at birth. However, like infections acquired through other routes, a significant number of these infections can develop into chronic HCV. With a mean incubation period of 45 days and the fact that 75%-85% of infected individuals become chronic carriers, babies can also bear this burden. The progression and severity of the disease in these cases are variable, and the infection in some infants may resolve spontaneously, while others may progress to chronic liver disease. Recent advancements in the development of medications, which are tailored to the specific genotype causing the infection, have shown great potential for treating HCV.