Newborn babies have weak immune systems. They can be prone to infections very easily since their defense system are not developed. Fortunately, they also respond very quickly to antibiotics, if the infection is caught in time. When newborns get sick, they may need to be put in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to recover.
Causes Of Infections
Most infections in newborn babies are caused by bacteria, and some by viruses. A mother’s birth canal contains bacteria, especially if she has an active infection. During childbirth, the baby can swallow or breathe in the fluid in the birth canal, and bacteria or viruses can get into his body. The baby can become sick during childbirth or within the first few days after birth. The sooner the infection is found and cured, the better and happier.
Symptoms Of Infections
Symptoms for the infection in a newborn baby include:
- irregular temperature below 36.6 degrees C or above 38.0 degrees C
- poor feeding and difficulty waking to feed
- excessive sleepiness
- irritability
- rapid breathing at a rate over 60 breaths per minute
- change in behavior
Diagnosis and Treatment For Infections
To diagnose these infections a varied range of tests that include Blood tests, urine tests, X-Rays and more are taken. Special care is needed for them. Vaccinations, medicines and sometimes surgical interventions are also needed to cure them and to bring back a happier baby.
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