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..