KARACHI: A large international analysis has found that applying a common antiseptic, chlorhexidine, to newborns’ umbilical cords can significantly reduce infection rates in low- and middle-income countries.
The study, based on data from over 143,000 newborns, suggests the antiseptic may lower infection cases by nearly 29% and could also help reduce neonatal deaths.
Umbilical cord care remains a crucial part of newborn hygiene, particularly in regions with limited healthcare resources. Experts note that while clean and dry care is sufficient in well-equipped settings, antiseptic use can be more effective where infection risks are higher.
Globally, millions of newborn deaths occur each year, with a large proportion in developing countries. The findings indicate that simple, low-cost interventions like chlorhexidine application can play an important role in improving newborn survival rates.
However, the effectiveness of such measures depends on local conditions, highlighting the need for context-based healthcare practices.
