ASSOCIATION OF MATERNAL COVID-19 INFECTION WITH NEONATAL OUTCOMES AT A GOVERNMENT TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN KANYAKUMARI DISTRICT.

ABSTRACT: Background: The prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 transmission from mother to infant appears minimal and may be related to biological and social variables. However, there are data on the variables linked with newborn clinical or viral testing results. Therefore, to study the association of SARS CoV2 infection on perinatal transmission and neonatal outcomes. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study in neonates born to SARS CoV2 RT-PCR Positive mothers at post-natal Day 3 of life admitted to Kanyakumari Government Medical College between Jul 01, 2020, to Dec 31, 2021. Testing was avoided within the first 48 hours to eliminate false-positive findings from superficial colonisation. Mothers with SARS-CoV2 positive reports were tested or recommended for admission. All newborns were followed for clinical signs over the first seven days after delivery and for as long as the mother remained in the hospital. Results: Among 194 neonates, 5 (2.6%) screened positive on Day 3 of birth, without mortality. 73% of the mothers had LSCS as the mode of delivery. 69% of neonates weighed more than 2.5 kg. 87% of neonates had no post-natal complications, and most were breastfed. 13.4% of neonates required NICU admission, mainly for respiratory distress, and none was mechanically ventilated for intra-uterine Pneumonia. No association was found between mode of delivery and type of feeding. Conclusion: There was no evidence of perinatal transmission in our cohort, and the neonates produced to SARS CoV2 Positive mothers survived well. Keywords: Perinatal transmission, SARS CoV2, Neonate, IVIG, Respiratory distress, breastfeeding