Newborns: reducing mortality - Every year nearly 40% of all
under-five child deaths are among newborn infants, babies in
their first 28 days of life or the neonatal period. - Three
quarters of all newborn deaths occur in the first week of life.
- In developing countries nearly half of all mothers and
newborns do not receive skilled care during and immediately
after birth. - Up to two thirds of newborn deaths can be
prevented if known, effective health measures are provided at
birth and during the first week of life. The vast majority of
newborn deaths take place in developing countries where access
to health care is low. Most of these newborns die at home,
without skilled care that could greatly increase their chances
for survival. Skilled health care during pregnancy, childbirth
and in the postnatal (immediately following birth) period
prevents complications for mother and newborn, and allows for
early detection and management of problems. In addition, WHO and
UNICEF now recommend home visits by a skilled he