USPSTF Again Recommends Ointment to Prevent Gonococcal Eye Infection in Newborns

By the Editors

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is again recommending that all newborns receive ocular topical medication to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum (GON). The grade A draft recommendation is consistent with the group's 2011 guidance.

The task force says it found convincing evidence that 0.5% erythromycin ointment can prevent GON without causing serious harm.