Infection Protection for Mothers and Babies

Mothers & Newborns

In the UK about 650,000 babies are born each year. Most of these births take place in hospital and both mother and baby usually return home safe and well. But because of medical advances many babies are being born who in previous times may not have survived. A newborn does not, in any case, have a fully developed immune system and needs to be protected by its carers from infection. Infants in neonatal intensive care units are at particular risk as they are often hooked up to drips and drains. Practicing good hand and skin hygiene by staff, carers, parents and visitors is essential to protect these babies.

Although the rate of MRSA blood stream infections has dropped in our hospitals the rate of MSSA (Methicillin Sensitive Staph Aureus) has not, and may even be on the rise. MSSA is already significantly more common than MRSA. Worryingly, the highest MSSA blood stream infections rates(2006) were in babies up to one year.

Mothers too need a little extra protection before the birth. It is a sensible to ensure that your skin is as free as possible of any of the bacteria or other bugs which could harm you or your baby. Be particularly careful after your baby is born if you have had an episiotomy or caesarian delivery.

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Breastfeeding

Sore, cracked nipples are a common occurrence when breastfeeding. This makes the nipple vulnerable to infections such as streptococci, MSSA and MRSA – common causes of mastitis.
If your baby has a nasal colonisation it increases the chances of a nipple infection.

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Flu, Swine Flu and Pregnancy


	The Director General of the World Health Organization said June 2009 "Without question, pregnant women are at increased risk of complications. This heightened risk takes on added importance for a virus, like this one(swine flu), that preferentially infects younger age groups." But remember that pregnancy is also a risk factor for seasonal flu, especially in the last trimester. Flu poses a threat both to the mother and to the unborn child. Among the complications, the fever associated with flu can lead to a premature delivery. Health advisers recommended three years ago that pregnant women should be among the groups offered a seasonal flu jab. When a vaccine for H1N1 swine flu becomes available in the autumn (2009), pregnant women may well be among the first "at risk" groups offered the jab.


	What about antiviral drugs and pregnancy? During pregnancy, the concern with any drug is that it may pass through the placenta and affect the baby. There is a risk factor especially during the first trimester.

	HSJ June 2009-06

Being aware of how preventable infections are transmitted and taking precautionary measures, is your best defense in protecting both you and your baby in hospital and at home.