Vertical transmission and COVID-19: a scoping review

Abstract

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).