Study finds rigorous prevention measures reduce NICU viral infections

Enhanced infection prevention measures at 12 neonatal intensive care units reduced viral spread among patients significantly, according to a JAMA Network Open study of 48,475 infants. The authors say the study, which took place before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, illuminates the importance of infection control efforts within hospitals. Enhanced infection prevention measures included universal masking, changes to staff and visitor health screening, reinforced hand hygiene practices and restricted visitation policies. The authors found viral hospital-associated infections decreased from 0.8% before the pandemic to 0.3% during the pandemic, even as viral infections in the community increased. The authors suggest neonatal units implement enhanced infection prevention measures during periods of high viral activity, including high community rates of respiratory illnesses. (OHSU news release, 2/12/26)