Paediatricians warn parents against ignoring newborn danger signs

Paediatric specialists have called on parents and caregivers to promptly seek medical attention whenever newborns show signs of illness, warning that delays in treatment can result in severe complications or even death.

The experts made the appeal as part of efforts to reduce neonatal mortality, stressing that early recognition of warning signs and timely intervention are critical to improving the survival chances of newborn babies.

Speaking on the issue, Dr. Aminu Mohammad, a paediatric surgeon at Bayero University, Kano, said many neonatal deaths could be prevented if parents were equipped with the knowledge to identify symptoms that require urgent medical attention.

“Families should be educated on the danger signs in newborns. Whenever a newborn is having difficulty breathing, is not breathing well, is convulsing, has abnormal skin colour, or is extremely cold, they must be taken to the hospital immediately,” Mohammad said.

“The earlier the baby receives care, the better.”

According to the paediatric surgeon, difficulty in breathing remains one of the most critical warning signs. This may include rapid or irregular breathing, flaring of the nostrils, grunting sounds or the chest pulling inward during breathing.

He also identified convulsions, seizures, unusual body stiffness and episodes of unresponsiveness as symptoms that require immediate emergency care.

Other danger signs include abnormal skin colour, such as persistent paleness, severe jaundice or a bluish discolouration around the lips and tongue, which may indicate inadequate oxygen supply or poor blood circulation.

Mohammad further warned that newborns with unusually low body temperature or high fever should be taken to a health facility without delay, noting that temperature instability can be a sign of serious infection or other life-threatening conditions.

He urged hospitals and healthcare workers to prioritise emergency care for sick newborns, explaining that infants can deteriorate rapidly and should not be subjected to lengthy waiting times before receiving treatment.

The paediatrician also highlighted the importance of preventive measures, including regular antenatal care, delivery in health facilities attended by skilled birth attendants, proper hygiene practices and early initiation of breastfeeding to improve newborn health outcomes.

Health experts continue to encourage parents to seek professional medical advice whenever they notice unusual symptoms in their babies, rather than attempting self-medication or delaying hospital visits.