As Dr Vivek Jain, Senior Director & Unit Head, Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, explains, knowledge of risk factors, maintaining hygiene, and recognition of initial symptoms of infections can help in protecting the newborns from serious complications associated with the disease.
What Are Neonatal Infections?
Neonatal infections happen during the first 28 days after birth. They may be due to bacteria, viruses, or fungi. These infections can start before birth, during delivery, or after birthing. Some infections can escalate into severe problems requiring quick medical assistance.Neonatal infections include the following:
- Sepsis: It is a severe form of blood infection impacting major organs
- Pneumonia: This refers to lung infections causing difficulty in breathing
- Meningitis: This refers to infection of tissues surrounding the brain and spine
- Urinary tract infections: This condition affects the urinary system, leading to symptoms like fever
- Skin or umbilical cord infections: These types of infections occur due to germs entering through damaged skin or a healing umbilical cord
- Dr Vivek Jain, Senior Director & Unit Head of Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi
What Increases the Risk of Infections?
There are several reasons why the newborn might be at a higher risk. As a result of their partly developed immune systems, premature infants are among those at the greatest risk.Key risk factors include:
- Being born prematurely
- Low birth weight
- Maternal illness while pregnant
- Prolonged labour
- Membranes ruptured for a long time
- Poor hygiene around the newborn
- Coming into contact with disease carriers
Prevention During Pregnancy and Delivery
The prevention of infections starts in the pregnancy stage. The mother has to utilise antenatal care and get all necessary tests for infections. If an infection is discovered, treatment must be given promptly under the doctor's supervision.During childbirth, doctors and other practitioners should observe strict rules of hygiene and sterility. Proper tools and infection-control approaches will help in avoiding the transmission of infections to the baby. Some babies might need additional precautions if they have additional risk factors present.
Preventing Infections After Birth
Hygiene must be maintained at home. Parents and caretakers must wash their hands before touching, feeding, or taking care of the infant. It is important to avoid unnecessary touching and kissing, particularly by unwell individuals.The umbilical cordmust be kept clean and dry. Parents must not use oils, powders, herbs, or any other substances unless it is indicated by a doctor. Breastfeeding is another very important measure to help the newborn gain immunity and protection. Exclusive breastfeeding allows the baby to get necessary antibodies and some other protective components that help develop the baby's immune system. If mothers have any issues regarding breastfeeding, they must consult their doctor.
Warning Signs Parents Should Know
Parents must keep an eye out for any changes to their baby's usual behaviour and go to the doctor when they notice anything unusual, which may point to a danger to the baby's health.The warning signs are:
- A fever or unusually low temperature
- Lack of appetite
- Increased sleepiness or trouble waking up
- Breathing problems or fast breathing
- Vomiting
- Changes in skin colour (pale or blue)
- Reduced activity or movement
- Redness, swelling, and discharge from the navel
- Convulsions or unusual movements
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
If a baby shows difficulty in breathing, skin changes, repeated vomiting, excessive crying, decreased responsiveness, or refusal to feed, the doctor must be consulted immediately, as well as in case of fever or very low temperature.Dr Vivek Jain warns not to depend on home remedies and delay treatment for a sick baby, as timely diagnosis is vital for avoiding complications.
Protecting a newborn from infection starts with good pregnancy care and continues through safe delivery and careful newborn care at home. Regular antenatal checkups, infection screening, proper hand hygiene, clean cord care, and breastfeeding can all contribute to reducing infection risks. Parents should know the warning signs and act promptly when something seems unusual. Early medical attention can make an important difference to a newborn's recovery and overall health.
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FAQs on Common Neonatal Infections and Prevention Strategies
- Can a newborn have an infection without a fever?
Yes. Newborns may have an infection without developing a fever. Low body temperature, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, breathing difficulty, or reduced activity can also be warning signs. - How can parents prevent umbilical cord infections?
Keep the cord clean and dry, wash hands before touching it, and avoid applying substances such as oils or powders unless recommended by a doctor. - Does breastfeeding protect newborns from infections?
Breast milk contains antibodies and other protective components that support the baby's developing immune system. Exclusive breastfeeding can therefore help protect against several infections.
