A newborn with a danger sign needs prompt professional assessment. Do not use this page to decide that a sick newborn is “probably fine.”
Why newborn symptoms deserve a low threshold for care
The newborn period covers the first 28 days of life. Babies at this age have less reserve than older children, and signs of serious illness may initially be subtle. WHO therefore emphasizes early recognition and prompt care.
Important danger signs
- Feeding problems: not feeding well, refusing feeds or a clear decline from usual feeding.
- Reduced activity: unusually sleepy, weak, difficult to wake or moving much less than usual.
- Breathing difficulty: fast or laboured breathing, grunting or obvious chest indrawing.
- Fever or abnormal coldness: a newborn who feels unusually hot or cold needs assessment.
- Fits or convulsions.
- Early or marked jaundice: jaundice in the first 24 hours after birth, or yellow palms/soles, is specifically listed by WHO among warning signs requiring prompt attention.
Do not wait for several danger signs to appear together. One significant warning sign can be enough to justify urgent assessment.
Everyday care still matters
WHO’s essential newborn care recommendations include warmth, hygienic cord and skin care, early and exclusive breastfeeding, assessment for serious health problems and timely vaccination according to the national schedule.
When parents are simply unsure
With a newborn, uncertainty itself is a reasonable reason to contact a pediatrician, maternity/newborn service or appropriate medical facility. A parent who says “the baby is not acting like usual” may be noticing an important change before it fits a neat label.
References
- World Health Organization. Newborns: improving survival and well-being.
- World Health Organization. Essential newborn care course, second edition.