Abstract

Current evidence is limited on vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and neonatal outcome, thus posing a challenge for preventive strategies. Objective : To evaluate clinical outcome of neonates born to mothers with perinatal SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in Govt General Hospital (GGH) Siddipet, Telangana state from 1st June 2020 to 1st Aug 2021. A total of 164 neonates born to SARS-CoV-2 infected mothers were enrolled. Real time polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR) testing was done in first24 hr of life. Inclusion criteria: All neonates born to COVID positive mothers. Exclusion criteria: Neonates BORN TO COVID Negative mothers and those refused to give informed consent. Results: A total of 178 neonates were analysed. Mode of delivery was by Caesarian section in most (n = 132, 80.5%) cases. Most of them were asymptomatic and kept on mother side and initiated breast feeding (85.9%). Some were premature (9.8%), low birth weight (18.9%). Few neonates developed respiratory distress (6%), sepsis (15%) and hyperbilirubinemia (24%). Among 178 neonates tested for RT-PCR 1 new born was tested to be positive and had good final outcome without complications. Conclusion: In our study, the neonatal outcomes were good and hence all the COVID-19–positive neonates were discharged after two consecutive negative RT-PCR tests. Neonates were discharged to a healthy asymptomatic caregiver and were closely followed up for 2 weeks after discharge.

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