Why do we need to keep babies safe from infection?
Babies have immature immune systems which means they’re more at risk of infections, especially in their first few weeks of life.
Infections that might be mild in older children or adults can be serious in babies and can even be life-threatening, so it’s important to take steps to keep them safe.
How can you protect babies from getting infections?
There are some key things that everyone can do to help prevent serious infections in babies, including any friends and family who might visit you and your baby. Follow THANKS – Think Hands And No KisseS.
T • H • A • N • K • S
Think Hands And No KisseS.
Always remember to:
- Wash your hands before touching a baby
- Only kiss a new baby if you’re their parent or main carer.
And if you or any visitors are ill:
- Don’t visit a baby if you are ill or have been ill recently. This includes active cold sores as well as diarrhoea and vomiting illnesses.
- Stay away until you are fully recovered. This is a key part of keep babies safe from infection.
- Ask visitors to do the same. If you have a baby, make sure friends and family know when it’s best to stay away to protect your baby.
What are the signs of infection in babies?
It can be difficult to tell when your baby has an infection or if your baby is unwell as they can cause lots of different signs and symptoms. You know your baby best, so trust your instincts and, if you feel that something’s not quite right, contact your midwife, health visitor, GP or NHS 111. If you’re very worried, go to an emergency department.
They appear floppy
They are irritable and won't settle
They have a mottled or blotchy appearance
They have difficulty breathing
Or are breathing in an unusual way, such as: fast, noisily, ‘sucking in’ under the ribs, grunting or wheezing.
They have a rash, sores or blisters
On their skin, eyes, inside their mouth or around their tummy button.
They have a temperature
Above 38°C or below 36°C, or their body is cold to the touch.
They have a high-pitched or abnormal cry
What to tell your health professional
If you think your baby might have an infection, it’s important to tell your health professional anything they might need to know – even if they don’t ask. Being open will help them diagnose and treat your baby. Let them know anything during pregnancy or after birth that might be relevant, including the following.
If the person who gave birth:
- Had any illnesses during pregnancy, such as flu-like symptoms.
- Missed any routine vaccinations in pregnancy, such as COVID-19, RSV, influenza or pertussis vaccines.
- Had chicken pox seven days before or after baby’s birth.
- Has blisters or a rash on their breast/nipple (if breastfeeding).
- Has ever had a genital herpes infection, even if they don’t have symptoms at the moment.
- Had sexual contact with a new partner during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester.
- Had symptoms of sexually transmitted disease during pregnancy.
- Travelled overseas during pregnancy.
If you or your baby:
- Have tested positive for Group B Strep.
If your baby has had contact with anyone who:
- Had chicken pox.
- Had an active cold sore.
More information - spotting/preventing infections
Baby Check app
Peace of mind in your pocket.
Our Baby Check is free and features 17 simple checks you can do if your baby is showing signs of illness. Each check tests for a different symptom and, when completed, the app lets you know whether your baby needs to see a health professional.
Remember to trust your parenting instincts, as you know your baby best. If you feel that something’s not quite right, contact your midwife, health visitor, GP or NHS 111. If you’re very worried, go to an emergency department.
Frequently asked questions
Remember
Being a new parent means you will naturally want to protect your baby, including from getting ill. Follow the THANKS guidelines to help protect them, and let any friends, family or visitors know about them too.
You know your baby best so trust your instincts if you think something’s not right. As babies are more vulnerable to infections, especially when they’re very young, it’s important to get help straight away. The signs and symptoms listed here will help you spot when an infection might be serious, plus you can download the Baby Check app which can tell you when it’s time to seek help.
Every baby safe. Every family supported.
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