Neonatal infections are infections that occur in newborn babies, typically within the first 28 days of life. These infections can be caused by a variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Neonatal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Prompt recognition, diagnosis, and treatment are critical to improving outcomes for affected newborns.
Causes of Neonatal Infections
Neonatal infections can be acquired through various routes, including during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or after birth (postnatal). The main categories of neonatal infections include:
1. Infections Acquired During Pregnancy (Congenital Infections)
These infections are transmitted from the mother to the fetus either transplacentally (through the placenta) or through the ascending infection during labor.
Examples:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS): A leading cause of neonatal sepsis, often transmitted during labor or delivery.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Can cause hearing loss, developmental delays, and other health issues in neonates.
Toxoplasmosis: Caused by the Toxoplasma parasite, it can lead to neurological damage, visual impairments, and other developmental issues.
Syphilis: If untreated, it can lead to stillbirth or neonatal death.
Rubella (German Measles): Can cause congenital rubella syndrome, which includes hearing loss, heart defects, and developmental delays.
2. Infections Acquired During Labor and Delivery (Perinatal Infections)
These infections are acquired as the baby passes through the birth canal or through contact with infected amniotic fluid or maternal blood.
Examples:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS): This bacterium is a leading cause of neonatal sepsis and pneumonia. Newborns can acquire it during delivery if the mother is a carrier.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Newborns can acquire HSV during vaginal delivery if the mother has an active infection, leading to serious complications like encephalitis.
Chorioamnionitis: An infection of the amniotic sac that can lead to premature birth or neonatal infection.
3. Postnatal Infections
These infections are acquired after birth, either in the hospital (nosocomial infections) or from environmental sources.
Examples:
Neonatal Sepsis: A blood infection that can be caused by bacteria like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella, or Staphylococcus aureus.
Respiratory Infections: Such as pneumonia, which can be caused by viral pathogens like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Meningitis: Infection of the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can be caused by bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli, GBS) or viruses (e.g., herpes simplex virus).
Tracks:
Prevention and Infection Control in Neonatal Units
Fungal Infections in Neonates
Viral Infections and Neonatal Health
Bacterial Infections and Sepsis in Neonates