Newborn Care Week, celebrated annually from November 15 to November 21 in India, aims to raise awareness about essential newborn care, reducing infant mortality, and improving newborn health. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, was established in response to high infant mortality rates and preventable health issues impacting newborns in the country.
A primary focus of Newborn Care Week is on promoting good practices for infant care, including proper hygiene, breastfeeding, immunization, and handling illnesses. The initiative emphasizes the first 28 days of life, a critical period when newborns are most vulnerable to infections, respiratory problems, malnutrition, and other complications. Educating healthcare providers and communities about the significance of this early period is essential to ensuring newborns have a healthy start to life.
Key messages during Newborn Care Week include the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, regular immunizations, and the maintenance of hygienic conditions to prevent infections. The week also highlights Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), a technique that encourages skin-to-skin contact, especially for premature babies, to regulate their body temperature and foster bonding.
Newborn Care Week is not only about awareness but also about addressing systemic challenges in healthcare infrastructure, such as ensuring accessible neonatal facilities and skilled healthcare personnel, especially in rural areas. The week emphasizes collaboration among health workers, government bodies, and NGOs to strengthen newborn care practices nationwide.
Through educational sessions, workshops, and community outreach, Newborn Care Week advocates for these practices, aiming to reduce neonatal mortality rates and support the health and survival of every newborn in India.