USPSTF Reaffirms Gonococcal Ophthalmia Neonatorum Recommendations

The USPSTF has reaffirmed its recommendation that all newborns receive ocular antibiotic ointment for the prevention of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum (Grade A).

The newly released recommendation statement serves as an update to the group’s 2011 recommendation on the prevention of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum.

For their update, the USPSTF commissioned a review of new and substantial evidence that could be sufficient enough to alter their current recommendations. During this review, no new, sufficient evidence was discovered that would lead to changes in the 2011 recommendations.

“The USPSTF found no new substantial evidence that could change its recommendation and therefore reaffirms its recommendation to provide prophylactic ocular topical medication for all newborns to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum.”

—Michael Potts

Reference:

USPSTF. Ocular prophylaxis for gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum: US Preventive Services Task Force reaffirmation recommendation statement. JAMA. 2019;321(4):394-398.