Neonatal infections can be spread from mother to baby during pregnancy or birth, or from exposure to viruses or bacteria in a hospital setting. Common infections include meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia, and herpes. Diagnosis involves spinal puncture or blood samples, and treatment includes antibiotics or antiviral drugs. Cesarean section can prevent mother-to-child transmission of herpes.
The most common neonatal infections are spread from mother to baby in utero or when the baby is born. Some neonatal infections, such as meningitis and sepsis, develop after birth, either from breastfeeding or from exposure to viruses or bacteria in a hospital setting. A number of bacteria, such as Listeria monocytogenes and group B streptococcus, lead to neonatal infections. Some viruses, such as herpes and hepatitis, are also common causes of infections in newborns.
Meningitis is a type of newborn infection usually caused by several types of bacteria. Babies born with weakened immune systems are more likely to get meningitis, either during birth or after exposure. It can be difficult to diagnose meningitis initially, as symptoms are nonspecific and include fussiness, refusal to eat, and sleepiness. If left untreated, meningitis will cause the soft spots on your baby’s head to swell.
The infection can be diagnosed through a spinal puncture, during which a doctor will insert a needle into your child’s spine to remove the fluid. If bacteria or a fungus is causing meningitis, it can be treated with antibiotics. A viral infection will be treated with an antiviral drug. Usually, your child will need to spend time in the intensive care unit while he recovers.
Group B strep is a bacterium responsible for a neonatal meningitis infection. It can also lead to some other newborn infections, such as pneumonia and sepsis. A child with pneumonia may have trouble breathing and have a fever. Antibiotics typically clear up any infection caused by group B strep.
Sepsis is an infection caused not only by bacteria but also by viruses, fungi and parasites. Symptoms of sepsis resemble those of meningitis, making the disease difficult to diagnose. A doctor can do a spinal tap or take a blood sample to determine if a child has sepsis. Treatment includes observation in the hospital along with a course of antibiotics or antiviral drugs.
Common neonatal infections also include herpes simplex 2, which a mother can pass on to her baby during delivery. A baby with herpes will typically show symptoms around the first or second week of life. Herpes can be localized on a child’s skin or mucous membranes, or on the whole body. If left untreated, a localized herpes infection can spread throughout the body.
Neonatal herpes can be treated with acyclovir, an antiviral drug available in pill or topical ointment form. Some children may need additional support, such as intravenous fluids and a respirator. Mother-to-child transmission of neonatal herpes can be prevented by performing a cesarean section during delivery.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
