Early-onset sepsis remains a common and a serious problem for neonates, especially preterm infants. Neonatal sepsis is a blood infection that occurs in an infant younger than 90 days old. Sepsis with an early onset is seen in the first week of life. Sepsis with a late-onset occurs after 1 week to 3 months of age. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E Coli), Listeria, and some streptococcus strains can cause neonatal sepsis. Group B streptococcus (GBS) has been identified as a major cause of neonatal sepsis. However, because women are screened during pregnancy, this problem has become less common. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) can also infect a newborn baby and cause a severe infection. This occurs most frequently when the mother is newly infected.

Early-onset neonatal sepsis generally appears within 24 to 48 hours of birth. The baby gets the infection from the mother before or during delivery. GBS colonization during pregnancy, preterm delivery, water breaking (rupture of membranes) more than 18 hours before birth, and infection of placental tissues and amniotic fluid (chorioamnionitis) increase an infant's risk of developing early-onset bacterial sepsis. Babies with late-onset neonatal sepsis become infected after birth. Having a catheter in a blood vessel for an extended period as well as long hospital stay can increase the infant's risk of sepsis after delivery.

Symptoms of infections in newborn babies include being sleepy, irritable, rapid breathing or breathing pauses (apnea), vomiting or diarrhea, fever (temperature over 38.2 degrees C), inability to stay warm, and pale appearance. Sepsis is diagnosed through blood tests, urine tests, skin swabs, and spinal taps. To treat the infection, babies are admitted to the hospital. Treatments may include intravenous fluids, IV antibiotics, fever medications, extra oxygen, and other forms of respiratory support. Occasionally, newborn babies may need blood transfusions. If you notice any signs and symptoms, consult your health care provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment of possible sepsis in neonates is important to avoid serious consequences such as death.

- PNFP Rowence F. Zorilla, RND

References:

1. Neonatal sepsis

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007303.htm

2. Sepsis in Newborns

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15371-sepsis-in-newborns#symptoms-and-causes