Prevalence, perinatal outcomes and factors associated with neonatal sepsis in Nigeria

Objective

To examine the prevalence, perinatal outcomes and factors associated with neonatal sepsis in referral-level facilities across Nigeria.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from the Maternal and Perinatal Database for Quality, Equity and Dignity Programme in 54 referral-level hospitals across Nigeria.

Setting

Records covering the period from 1 September 2019 to 31 August 2020.

Population

Mothers admitted for birth during the study period, and their live newborns.

Methods

Analysis of prevalence and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with neonatal sepsis and perinatal outcomes. Multilevel logistic regression modelling identified factors associated with neonatal sepsis.

Main outcome measures

Neonatal sepsis and perinatal outcomes.

Results

The prevalence of neonatal sepsis was 16.3 (95% CI 15.3–17.2) per 1000 live births (1113/68 459) with a 10.3% (115/1113) case fatality rate. Limited education, unemployment or employment in sales/trading/manual jobs, nulliparity/grand multiparity, chronic medical disorder, lack of antenatal care (ANC) or ANC outside the birthing hospital and referral for birth increased the odds of neonatal sepsis. Birthweight of <2500 g, non-spontaneous vaginal birth, preterm birth, prolonged rupture of membranes, APGAR score of <7 at 5 min, birth asphyxia, birth trauma or jaundice were associated with neonatal sepsis. Neonates with sepsis were more frequently admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (1037/1110, 93.4% vs 8237/67 346, 12.2%) and experienced a higher rate of death (115/1113, 10.3% vs 933/67 343, 1.4%).

Conclusions

Neonatal sepsis remains a critical challenge in neonatal care, underscored by its high prevalence and mortality rate. The identification of maternal and neonatal risk factors underscores the importance of improved access to education and employment for women and targeted interventions in antenatal and intrapartum care.