Effects of SARS-CoV-2 gestational exposure and risk factors on neurodevelopment until 12 months: A prospective cohort study in Brazil.

Background: The effects of SARS-CoV-2 gestational exposure on child development remain inconclusive.

Aims: To analyze the effects of SARS-CoV-2 gestational exposure on neurodevelopment until 12 months.

Study Design: Prospective cohort study conducted in five municipalities in Southeast Brazil from August 2021 to September 2022.

Serological survey for IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 from newborns and their mothers.

This serological survey, conducted in five Brazilian municipalities, evaluated the use of dried blood spots (DBS), obtained from newborns and their mothers, to detect SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. DBS were obtained from 4,803 neonates aged up to seven days and their mothers, both asymptomatic, at public health care clinics during newborn screening. DBS were processed by ELISA to detect IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen.