Bhatkal: Newborn Care Week is currently underway in Bhatkal, spanning from November 11 to November 17, in collaboration with the Bhatkal Taluka Government Hospital and RNS College of Nursing, Murdeshwar.

The program was inaugurated by Dr. Harsha, the District Child Health Officer from Karwar, who lit the ceremonial lamp. Dr. Harsha emphasized the significance of the initiative, aiming to decrease neonatal mortality rates and raise awareness among the community about the proper care of newborns. He stressed that while the birth of a child is a pivotal moment, ensuring the child's physical and mental development and safeguarding them from diseases and infections require meticulous attention.

Dr. Surakshit Shetty, a child specialist at Bhatkal Taluka Government Hospital, provided comprehensive insights into newborn care. He highlighted the heightened risk of mortality during the first 28 days after birth, attributing it to factors such as immaturity, diseases, infections, and other causes. Dr. Shetty underscored the importance of National Newborn Care Week in promoting awareness and advocating for appropriate care practices to enhance newborn survival and ensure a healthy life.

The first 24 hours and initial 28 days post-birth are recognized as a critical period for a child's lifelong health and development. Dr. Shetty noted that issues like insufficient physical development at birth, infections, intrapartum complications, and congenital malformations contribute to a significant number of newborn deaths each year within the first month.

Addressing a concerning trend, Dr. Shetty pointed out that many mothers in Bhatkal are not adhering to timely vaccinations for their newborns, emphasizing the need for prompt attention to this aspect of childcare.

The program featured Shrimati Sukri Boman Gowda, a Padma Shri awardee from Ankola, as the chief guest, who was felicitated during the event. The ceremony also witnessed the participation of numerous nursing students from RNS College, including the college's Principal, Prof. Keshav Murthy CD. Dr. Savitha Kamath, the Bhatkal Government Hospital Administrator, and Bhatkal Taluk Health Officer, presided over the function.