Neonatal health can be jeopardized by germs, which is why it is important to keep a baby’s environment as clean as possible and to ensure that the baby gets the recommended vaccinations. Breastfeeding is believed to help prevent illness and allergies. Parents who choose to bottle feed their babies should make sure to sterilize all items used for this task. Parents should also be aware that hot water and excessive sunlight can be neonatal health hazards.
Many people have heard that babies have natural immunity. This is true to some degree, but there are limits as to what germs the baby is protected from. Also, the immunity is only temporary. Considering this, it is very important to keep the newborn’s environment very clean. It is a good idea for individuals to wash their hands before touching or picking up a newborn. It is also a good idea to keep disinfectant wipes and sprays handy for occasions that require them.
Since babies are susceptible to many germs that can lead to disease, it is important for parents to adhere to vaccination schedules. These schedules are generally developed by public health authorities to help prevent infections that have been identified as a threat in a given area. In many instances, there are shots that a baby is recommended to have during the first few days of life. If this does not happen, she can be at risk of developing serious illnesses.
Another habit that is believed to help protect neonatal health is breastfeeding. Health professionals have noted that babies who consume breast milk are less likely to get sick. There also appears to be a connection between breastfeeding and a smaller likelihood of developing allergies. Parents who choose to bottle feed their babies should make sure to sterilize all items used to prepare the formula and feed it to their babies. It is also important that parents discard unused formula as directed on the packaging.
During a child’s first few years, it will be recommended that she have numerous checkups. It is especially important that neonatal health be monitored by a medical professional. Parents should therefore strive to ensure that their babies do not miss any appointments during their first months of life.
It is important to remember that a newborn has very sensitive skin. If parents are not attentive to the temperature of the water used for bathing, there is a risk that their babies could get scalded. When taking newborns outside, it should also be remembered that it is essential to adequately protect them from excessive sunlight exposure.
