Chandigarh: The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh hosted a two-day workshop on neonatal sepsis, revealing alarming data on newborn mortality rates and the role of infections in infant deaths.
Key Findings on Neonatal Mortality
- PGIMER recorded 5,226 births in 2023, with 214 newborn deaths.
- Infections caused 60 deaths (28% of total mortality).
- Premature births were a major factor, with 83% of neonatal deaths involving preterm infants.
Why Premature Babies Are at Higher Risk?
Neonatal sepsis—severe bacterial infections in newborns—was identified as a leading cause of mortality. Premature infants have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more vulnerable. Procedures like blood sample collection and cannula insertion further increase infection risks.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), infections cause one-third of newborn deaths in developing countries, exacerbated by antibiotic overuse and rising fungal infections.
India’s Neonatal Crisis
Dr. Ramesh Agarwal from AIIMS, New Delhi, highlighted that India records 6 lakh newborn deaths annually, primarily due to premature birth, birth asphyxia, and infections. He emphasized preventive measures like maternal nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, and spacing pregnancies by three years.
Breastfeeding as a Preventive Measure
AIIMS expert Dr. Jeeva Sankar stressed that breastfeeding strengthens immunity and reduces infection risks. Even in NICUs, efforts are made to provide mother’s milk, which is crucial for brain development and immune support.
PGIMER Expanding Neonatal Care
To meet rising demand, PGIMER is expanding its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) from 22 beds to 105 with the launch of a new Advanced Mother and Child Care facility later this year.
The workshop brought together 100+ pediatricians and neonatal specialists to discuss best practices in infection control and NICU safety, marking a step forward in reducing newborn mortality in India.
