Volume 22 Issue 4
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Neonatal SARS-CoV-2 Infection in India: A Systematic Review
Rhishikesh Thakre, Sandeep Kadam, Nandkishor Shrikishanji Kabra
Abstract
Aim: To perform a systematic review to gather information on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of neonates infected with SARS-CoV-2 in India
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search of literature published between January 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021, was performed. Studies that included neonates < 29 days old, born in India, and diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection and provided data regarding the clinical manifestations, and/or laboratory tests, or radiological examinations were considered. All the included studies were evaluated for methodological quality, and the necessary data were collated.
Results: A total of 22 observational studies met the inclusion criteria. We identified 335 infected neonates. The diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection was made within 48 hours of birth in 44.1% of the cases. Most of these neonates were born to SARS-CoV-2–positive mothers (97.8%). Among the infected neonates, 21.7% were preterm, and 48.6% were low birth weight. Most of the neonates were asymptomatic (66.8%). The most common clinical features were cough, respiratory distress, and hypoxia (67%), and severe illness occurred in 2.9% of the neonates. The reported mortality was 2%.
Conclusions: The available evidence (limited and of low quality) suggests that the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates was low in India. The source of infection was the mother. Most of the neonates were asymptomatic, and respiratory symptoms were the most common clinical presentation. Most neonates stabilized upon receiving supportive care, and the overall prognosis was good.
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