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Human Placental and Decidual Organ Cultures to Study Infections at the Maternal-fetal Interface
Published on: July 21, 2016
COVID-19 Infection, Prevention, and Control Considerations in the Obstetric Environment
Karen Acker1,2, Maria Eagen-Torkko2, Laura E Riley3
1Departments of Pediatrics.
Insights
Pregnant individuals face higher risks from COVID-19. Implementing consistent COVID-safe practices, including vaccination, in obstetrical settings is crucial for preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Pregnancy is a significant risk factor for severe illness from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
- Effective prevention of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission in obstetrical settings is critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline evidence-based practices for preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmission in obstetrical care.
- To emphasize the importance of integrating local epidemiology, regulations, and expert guidance into COVID-19 prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of consistent, multi-faceted evidence-based practices.
- Application of COVID-safe protocols for patients, visitors, and healthcare personnel.
- Adherence to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and professional societies.
Main Results:
- Consistent application of screening, personal protective equipment (PPE), and transmission precautions is essential.
- COVID-safe practices must be implemented across all obstetrical healthcare settings.
- Vaccination is identified as the most effective preventive strategy.
Conclusions:
- Vaccination of healthcare personnel, pregnant individuals, and support persons is the primary strategy to prevent COVID-19.
- A comprehensive approach combining evidence-based practices, local considerations, and vaccination is necessary for robust COVID-19 prevention in obstetrics.
Abstract:
Pregnancy increases the risk of severe illness due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Thus, prevention of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission in all obstetrical health care settings requires consistent implementation of multiple evidence-based practices and consideration of local epidemiology, local regulations for COVID-19, and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Professional Societies. COVID-safe practices should be implemented for patients, visitors/support persons, and health care personnel and include screening, appropriate personal protective equipment, and transmission precautions. Vaccination of all health care personnel, pregnant people, and their support persons remains the best strategy to prevent COVID-19.
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