Question
What are the transmission pathways of newborn sepsis? How is newborn sepsis caused?
Answer
Newborn sepsis refers to a systemic infection that occurs when bacteria enter the newborn’s bloodstream, reproduce, and produce toxins. Sometimes, it can also lead to metastatic lesions within the body. The causes of newborn sepsis are relatively complex. Modern medicine believes that it is primarily caused by infections from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Klebsiella, and Group B Streptococcus. There are several pathways for infection:
- Intrauterine infection: If the mother is infected during pregnancy (such as sepsis), bacteria can be transmitted to the fetus through the placenta and blood.
- Perinatal infection: During the process of delivery, bacteria may be transmitted to the newborn through the birth canal, instruments used during delivery, or other medical devices.
- Postnatal infection: After birth, bacteria may be transmitted to the newborn through environmental contact, medical devices, or the hands of caregivers.