Critically Ill Infants

Infection

Although all newborns are at an increased risk of developing infections, this is particularly true for premature babies because their immune systems have not fully matured. As a result, they may not be able to adequately fight off bacteria, fungi, viruses and other organisms that may cause infections.

Some babies are born with infections that they contracted from their mothers, while others develop infections from the environment, especially those who have a vascular catheter. Microorganisms that normally live on the skin may cause infection if they enter the body through these catheters or other tubes inserted into the baby's body. These catheters and tubes are often necessary so that a baby can be provided with required nutrition and medications, and to allow a painless way to obtain blood for tests.

Because newborns are so susceptible to germs, it is strongly advised that all people entering the William H. Tooley Intensive Care Nursery at UCSF Children's Hospital wash their hands before and after touching babies. Anyone who is sick should not visit.

There are various infections affecting premature babies, including:

• Sepsis, a blood infection
• Pneumonia
• Meningitis, infection of the membranes surrounding the brain

Infections are usually treated with antibiotics or antiviral drugs.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007