SARS-CoV-2 infection and neonates: Evidence-based data after 18 months of the pandemic

Abstract

After 18 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, data concerning SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women and their neonates are progressively taking the place of complete uncertainty. Here, we summarize updated evidence regarding several critical aspects of perinatal SARS-CoV-2 infection, including 1) vertical transmission of the virus in utero, which is possible but seems rare according to current epidemiological data; 2) how COVID-19 during pregnancy can shape maternal and neonatal outcomes, either directly or indirectly; 3) how recommendations regarding the management of infected dyads have been progressively modified in light of new scientific evidence; and 4) how maternal infection or vaccination can induce the passive protection of fetuses and neonates against the infection, through the transfer of specific antibodies before and after birth.