Newborn Infections

A newborn baby, particularly a small or preterm baby, is at risk of suffering a neurological injury if he or she becomes infected. The mother may be carrying Group B Strep bacteria, which can be passed on to the baby as the baby is delivered. As well, infection can occur during labour affecting the placenta (chorioamnionitis) or the umbilical cord (vasculitis or funisitis). These conditions may have an impact on the health of the newborn.