Research Question: How does COVID-19 present and how do the clinical outcomes present in neonatal patients?
Research Findings: Most neonates infected with SARS-CoV-2 were asymptomatic or developed mild illness without need for respiratory support. The most common signs of infections were increased breath rate and fever. Some had severe illness requiring treatment of COVID-19 with remdesivir and COVID-19 convalescent plasma. Of those with severe COVID-19, pneumonia was present in 28.2%. SARS-CoV-2 infection in neonates, though rare, may result in severe disease. Neonates with severe COVID-19 had a higher incidence of comorbidities. Cardiac abnormalities may have an impact on disease progression.
Research Meaning: Most neonates were asymptomatic or developed mild illness, with few requiring respiratory support or adjunct medication. Timing of diagnosis indicated community-acquired or nosocomial infection. An investigation into the role of congenital abnormalities in COVID-19 may be helpful. Discrete analysis of neonatal cases by reporting bodies is advised for a clearer picture of rates and impact of COVID-19 in this population.
