Methods
Prospective clinical information was collected at the time of presentation to the maternity unit from February 2020 to April 2020 inclusive. Telephone follow-up of maternal recovery and neonatal conditions were carried out following hospital discharge for completion. The infection was confirmed based on positive RT-PCR results supplemented by clinical symptoms, chest x ray, chest computed tomography information. RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid was used to determine COVID-19 in suspected infection from both maternal and neonatal nasopharyngeal samples. Sample collection, processing, and laboratory testing followed guidance from the Public Health England 11World Health Organization. Laboratory testing for 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in suspected human cases: interim guidance 2020. Posted January 17, 2020. Accessed February 4, 2020. https://www.who.int/publications-detail/laboratory-testing-for-2019-novel-coronavirus-in-suspected-human-cases..
Furthermore, healthcare workers are recommended to employ strict infection prevention measures, including donning the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to shield themselves from droplets from cough, sneezes or other body fluids from suspected or infected patients and contaminated surfaces that might infect them. The use of PPE including aprons, gowns, gloves, masks, breathing equipment, and goggles or coveralls (a one-piece suit) when reviewing COVID-19 patients are prospectively logged 22Sayburn A. Covid-19: PHE upgrades PPE advice for all patient contacts with risk of infection. BMJ. 2020 Apr 3;369:m1391. doi: 10.1136/bmj.m1391..