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Updated: Nov 4, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancements in Multiplex Detection of Respiratory Viruses
Published on: November 10, 2023
Vertical transmission and COVID-19: a scoping review
Karoline Faria de Oliveira1, Jacqueline Faria de Oliveira2, Monika Wernet3
1Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro. Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Objective:
Analyze available evidence related to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vertical transmission.
Methods:
Scoping review, according to the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-ScR. Searches were conducted in five electronic databases to find publications about coronavirus infection and vertical transmission. Data were extracted, analyzed and synthesized by three independent researchers using a descriptive approach.
Results:
The search resulted in 76 publications. After selective steps, 15 articles - retrospective descriptive or case studies - were analyzed, all in English. In order to track the infection, specimens were collected from neonates through nasal swabs and C-reactive protein from breast milk, cord blood, amniotic fluid, placenta and vaginal secretion was analyzed. A small percentage of neonates tested positive for COVID-19, but these cases were not attributed to vertical transmission.
Conclusion:
Vertical transmission could not be demonstrated. Research protocol registered with the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/fawmv).
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