Universal Screening for Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) for Asymptomatic Parturients - May Not Be Beneficial At This Time.

The current novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2) has spread worldwide and is a significant global health issue. The possible presence of COVID-19 in pregnant patients is a major cause for concern, as historically, other coronaviruses had severe adverse outcomes in this population. Universal Prenatal testing for SARS CoV-2 the causative agent of COVID-19 has been recommended for all pregnant women in the current epicenter, New York City. However, due to the lack of evidence of vertical transmission, teratogenicity, treatment, or change in management of COVID-19 positive asymptomatic patients, this may not be the solution to controlling its spread. False-negative test results may also give inaccurate reassurance in otherwise infectious patients and false-positive tests may result in unnecessary distress and isolation. Universal testing seems more like a Band-Aid and does not seem to have much benefit at this time. Thus, healthcare professionals should continue to wear clean Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when treating all patients and take other precautions to decrease the spread of COVID-19. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.