Universal Screening for SARS-CoV-2 in Women Admitted for Delivery

This correspondence reports findings from universal SARS-CoV-2 testing implemented for 215 pregnant women admitted for delivery at two New York City hospitals during the early Covid-19 pandemic (March 22–April 4, 2020). Among asymptomatic women, 13.7% (29/210) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while 1.9% (4/215) presented with symptoms and tested positive. Notably, 87.9% of positive cases were asymptomatic at admission, though 10% of these developed fever postpartum. One initially negative patient tested positive after symptom onset. The study highlights the high prevalence of asymptomatic infections in obstetrical populations and advocates for universal screening to guide isolation protocols, neonatal care, and protective measures for health care workers.

This correspondence reports findings from universal SARS-CoV-2 testing implemented for 215 pregnant women admitted for delivery at two New York City hospitals during the early Covid-19 pandemic (March 22–April 4, 2020). Among asymptomatic women, 13.7% (29/210) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while 1.9% (4/215) presented with symptoms and tested positive. Notably, 87.9% of positive cases were asymptomatic at admission, though 10% of these developed fever postpartum. One initially negative patient tested positive after symptom onset. The study highlights the high prevalence of asymptomatic infections in obstetrical populations and advocates for universal screening to guide isolation protocols, neonatal care, and protective measures for health care workers.