New Delhi: Neonatal sepsis is a serious blood infection in newborns and can be life-threatening, especially for preterm babies. It occurs when a newborn baby develops an overwhelming response to an infection. It can lead to organ damage and even death. Talking about the condition and answering all FAQs in an interaction with News9Live, Dr. T J Antony, Director, Neonatology, Paediatric Care, Medanta, Gurugram, said,” Neonatal sepsis is a serious and common condition affecting infants under 28 days old. Globally, around 1.3 million cases are reported each year, with deaths more frequent among preterm and low-weight newborns. It ranks as the third leading cause of neonatal deaths, accounting for 203,000 fatalities annually. India has the world’s highest incidence of neonatal sepsis. Though common, neonatal sepsis remains widely under-recognised, highlighting the need for greater awareness among parents and mothers to help prevent it.”
Risk Factors for Preterm Babies
Preterm babies are at higher risk for neonatal sepsis due to:
Premature birth
Low birth weight
Maternal infections during pregnancy
Lower immunity
Early leakage of amniotic fluid (the water surrounding the baby)
Symptoms of neonatal sepsis
Symptoms of neonatal sepsis can be subtle and may include:
Fever or low body temperature
Poor feeding
Lethargy
Fast breathing
Jaundice (Yellowing of skin)
Early detection of neonatal sepsis
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Healthcare providers use various tests, including:
Blood cultures
Complete blood count (CBC)
C-reactive protein (CRP) test and Lumbar puncture
Treatment Strategies
Treatment for neonatal sepsis involves:
Prompt administration of antibiotics
Supportive care, such as oxygen therapy and fluid management
Intravenous (IV) fluids
Prevention Strategies
Preventing neonatal sepsis involves:
Proper hygiene practices for healthcare providers
Timely administration of antibiotics to pregnant women at risk
Good hygiene practices for the mother
Regular prenatal care
Complications if Untreated
Untreated neonatal sepsis can lead to:
Brain injury and delay in development
Respiratory issues
Conclusion
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for preterm babies with neonatal sepsis. Additionally, its long-term impact underscores early intervention. Let’s work together to educate ourselves, promote hygiene, and advocate for early detection to protect our most vulnerable infants.
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for preterm babies with neonatal sepsis. Additionally, its long-term impact underscores early intervention. Let’s work together to educate ourselves, promote hygiene, and advocate for early detection to protect our most vulnerable infants. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
