Aiming to raise awareness about the importance of new-born care for child's survival and development, the observance ceremony of National New-Born Week was kicked off on Wednesday.
The programme is organised by the Child Health Division of State Health Society (SHS), National Health Mission (NHM) at the office of State Mission Director, SHS, NHM, Manipur.
Addressing the function, SMD Dr Ningombam Somorjit said that the foundation of a healthy adult lies in the health condition during new-born period. About three-fourth of all the neonatal deaths occur in the first week of life, he said.
He said that health outcomes of new-born period are shaped by biological, social and economic as well as cultural environment. Most of the new-born deaths, including still-births, happen due to preventable causes. Effective and feasible interventions are available and may end preventable death if implemented properly, the doctor said.
The role of Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) is significant in promotion of healthcare practices and improve healthcare seeking behaviour through awareness generation and counselling in the community, he added.
He suggested that access to prompt care during sickness by early detection of danger signs and prompt referral to facilities equipped to manage sick new-born can improve survival of the new-born.
Stating some healthy tips, he said that no prelacteal feeds, etc. water, honey to be given to the new-born. Rather breastfeeding should be initiated within one hour after delivery. New-born babies should feed breastmilk exclusively till six months and after that complementary feeding can be started. Breastfeeding should be continued till 24 months or beyond, he said.
Umbilical cord stumps should be kept dry and do not apply oil, ghee, turmeric powder, etc. to prevent infection, he advised, adding that the baby should be kept warm and should not be bathed for 24 hours after birth.
The programme was also attended by state nodal officer of Child Health, NHM, Dr Sadana Ningthoujam.
