India’s National Newborn Care Week: A Call for Improved Infant Health and Vigilance

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National Newborn Care Week, held annually from November 15 to 21, is a crucial health initiative in India aimed at raising awareness of the vital importance of newborn care for the survival and development of infants. This week-long observance by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) brings together India’s health professionals, government officials, and development partners to combat preventable infant deaths and improve healthcare practices for newborns across the nation. The focus of the initiative is to ensure that every child receives high-quality care during the most vulnerable period of life—the neonatal phase, which comprises the first 28 days after birth. This year’s theme is “Safety, Quality and Nurturing Care – Birth Right of Every Newborn.”

The Critical Nature of the Neonatal Period

The neonatal phase is the most fragile stage of an infant’s life, with the highest risk of death occurring during this time. Approximately 26 lakh or 2.6 million newborns die each year within the first 28 days, with most fatalities happening within the first week of life. An additional 26 lakh stillbirths also occur annually. While India has made progress in reducing its Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR)—from 44 per 1000 live births in 2000 to 20 per 1000 live births in 2020—the goal of reducing child mortality to less than 20 per 1000 live births by 2035 remains a significant challenge.

Newborns are highly vulnerable to health complications such as infections, respiratory distress, and congenital abnormalities. Nearly 35% of newborn deaths occur due to poor physical development, while 33% result from infections. These issues highlight the need for continued focus on newborn care, not just within hospitals but also in home settings. National Newborn Care Week serves as a reminder to communities and healthcare providers alike of the urgent need to protect the health of infants from birth through the early days of life.

Monitoring Body Temperature: A Critical Step in Newborn Care

An often-overlooked aspect of newborn care is the regular monitoring of body temperature. A child’s temperature can provide early warnings of potential health issues such as infections, which are a leading cause of neonatal death. Infants are especially vulnerable to fluctuations in body temperature, and even minor deviations can be an indicator of serious underlying problems.

It is essential to check a child’s body temperature at least twice daily during the neonatal period. Regular monitoring allows for the timely detection of any abnormal temperature changes, which can be a signal that immediate medical intervention is needed. Using a reliable and accurate thermometer, like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, can make this process easier and more efficient. This non-invasive thermometer provides quick and precise temperature readings, reducing stress for both the infant and the caregiver. Regular monitoring using a trustworthy thermometer helps ensure that any potential health risks are identified early, safeguarding the child’s health.

National Newborn Care Week underscores the importance of creating awareness about proper newborn care and the collective responsibility in ensuring that infants receive the attention they need to thrive. Regular temperature checks, particularly with reliable tools like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, play a critical role in maintaining the health of newborns. By taking proactive steps to monitor temperature and being vigilant about potential health concerns, parents and caregivers can contribute to reducing neonatal mortality and improving the chances of a healthy start for every child.

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EXERGEN P/N 850269, Rev 1