The impact of COVID-19 variant 501Y.V2 on maternal and perinatal mortality among pregnant South African women

Abstract

Background/Aims The COVID-19 variant SARS COV 501Y.V2 was responsible for the second wave of COVID-19 in South Africa from October 2020 to March 2021. There are no studies that report on maternal mortality from this variant globally. This study's aim was to determine the impact of the variant on maternal deaths in the Ekurhuleni health district, South Africa. Methods A retrospective record review of all maternal deaths in COVID-19 positive cases in the Ekurhuleni health district from October 2020 to March 2021 was conducted. Demographic details, comorbidities and obstetric data were assessed. Results A total of 11 women who tested positive for COVID-19 died. In these cases, there were high rates of hypertension (67%), stillbirth (50%) and preterm caesarean section (67%). Laboratory abnormalities, including anaemia (64%) and high levels of lactic dehydrogenase (100%), aspartate transaminase (67%) and D-dimer (80%), were observed. Conclusions This study adds to the growing global knowledge of COVID-19 infections. Routine COVID-19 testing of all comorbid pregnant women at each antenatal visit is recommended. All pregnant women should be counselled to follow strict COVID-19 prevention protocols.