Healthcare-associated Infections in Very Low Birth-weight Infants in a South African Neonatal Unit: Disease Burden, Associated Factors and Short-term Outcomes.

Background: Infection is a leading cause of death among very low birth-weight (VLBW) infants in resource-limited settings.

Methods: We performed a retrospective review of healthcare-associated infection (HAI) episodes among VLBW infants from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017. The epidemiology, causative organisms and short-term outcomes were analyzed.

Performance Comparison of Infection Prediction Scores in a South African Neonatal Unit: A Retrospective Case-Control Study.

Background And Objectives: Infection prediction scores are useful ancillary tests in determining the likelihood of neonatal hospital-acquired infection (HAI), particularly in very low birth weight (VLBW; <1,500 g) infants who are most vulnerable to HAI and have high antibiotic utilization rates. None of the existing infection prediction scores were developed for or evaluated in South African VLBW neonates.

Methods: We identified existing infection prediction scores through literature searches and assessed each score for suitability and feasibility of use in resource-limited settings.