SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Rates of Neonatal Congenital Anomalies
By
John W. Snelgrove
Rinku Sutradhar
Nancy N. Baxter
Karl Everett
Stephanie C. Lapinsky
Douglas M. Campbell
Mark H. Yudin
Howard Berger
Eliane M. Shore
Andrea N. Simpson
May 7, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Impact of Maternal SARS-CoV-2 Infection on the Incidence of Congenital Anomalies in Newborns
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy Key Mechanisms Potential teratogenic effects through placental dysfunction, maternal immune activation, and direct vertical viral transmission. Target Population Pregnant individuals in Ontario, Canada Care Setting Population-based matched cohort study
Key Highlights
No significant effects on preterm birth, stillbirth, or neonatal death observed. Concerns raised about associations between COVID-19 and congenital anomalies, particularly cardiac anomalies. Timing of maternal infection during pregnancy is crucial for assessing teratogenic effects. Study utilized linked health and administrative datasets for analysis. Confirmed neonatal cases of vertically transmitted SARS-CoV-2 infection reported. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Use International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems codes for diagnosing congenital anomalies. Management
Monitor maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection status during pregnancy. Monitoring & Follow-up
Evaluate neonatal outcomes for congenital anomalies post maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. Risks
Consider maternal age, delivery date, gestational age, neonatal sex, and pre-pregnancy diabetes as risk factors. Patient & Prescribing Data
Live births at 22 weeks’ or more gestational age in Ontario.
Further research needed to clarify teratogenic effects of SARS-CoV-2.
Clinical Best Practices
Conduct thorough assessments of maternal health and infection status during pregnancy. Ensure accurate matching of control groups in studies evaluating maternal infections. References
