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Home  >  Articles  >  The Dangers of Neonatal Infections

The Dangers of Neonatal Infections

While in the womb, a baby is generally protected by the mother’s immune system. However, an infant’s own immune system is not yet fully developed at the time of birth, which makes a child vulnerable to a plethora of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Neonatal infections are very serious and can quickly become deadly.

There are several different ways in which newborns can be exposed to infectious agents, such as improper sterilization techniques in a hospital. If you believe that your baby developed a postnatal infection due to medical negligence like this, you can fight back in order to discourage future carelessness. To learn more about your legal options, contact an experienced New Jersey birth injury lawyer from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., today at 800-346-5529.

Transmission of Infections

Newborns can come into contact with pathogens the moment they enter the world. If the mother has certain types of infections, the baby can be exposed to the bacteria during delivery. Additionally, if other babies in the hospital are sick, nurses and other hospital caretakers can transfer the germs from sick children to healthy babies if they do not use proper sterilization. Lastly, the use of contaminated medical instruments can lead to infections as well.

Types of Infections

Although there are many different types of illnesses that can affect your newborn baby, some of the most common concerns include:

  • Group B streptococcal disease (GBS)
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Listeriosis
  • Meningitis
  • Sepsis

While some of these are easily treated with antibiotics or other medications, some severe bacterial infections such as sepsis or meningitis can be fatal.

Contact Us

Doctors and other medical professionals should work to make sure that your child does not enter the world and get exposed to dangerous pathogens. If a doctor has failed in this duty to you, resulting in your child’s postnatal infection, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Contact a qualified New Jersey birth injury attorney from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., at 800-346-5529 today to discuss your case.