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COVID-19, implications for the newborn. Literature review
Alejandra Sánchez-Cruz1, Eunice López-Muñoz2, Leovigildo Mateos-Sánchez1
1Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Hospital de Gineco Obstetricia No. 4 "Luis Castelazo Ayala", Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales.
Revista Medica Del Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social
|October 25, 2021
Summary
Newborns infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, generally experience milder symptoms and have a better prognosis than adults. Special precautions are necessary to prevent mother-to-child transmission and manage potential complications in neonates.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neonatal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) in late 2019 led to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 extends across all age groups, including the neonatal population.
- Limited information was available regarding COVID-19 in newborns during the early stages of the pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing scientific literature on the epidemiological and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in newborns.
- To summarize current recommendations for the management of neonates with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
- To consolidate knowledge on potential mother-to-child transmission routes and neonatal outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of scientific literature published in English was conducted.
- Searches were performed using the PubMed database.
- The literature search was limited to articles available up to April 21, 2020.
Main Results:
- Newborns infected with SARS-CoV-2 typically present with milder symptoms compared to adults.
- A significant proportion of infected neonates may be asymptomatic.
- The overall prognosis for newborns with COVID-19 appears more favorable than in adult populations.
Conclusions:
- While generally less severe, SARS-CoV-2 infection in newborns requires careful management.
- Specialized precautions are crucial to minimize the risk of vertical transmission from mother to child.
- Prompt identification and management of symptomatic neonates are essential to prevent potential complications.
