Factors associated with increased neonatal sepsis in Dar es salaam city

Abstract

The number of cases of neonatal sepsis seems to be on the increase in Dar es Salaam municipal hospitals. Previous studies indicate that the contribution of socio-cultural factors in increasing the number of neonatal sepsis in Dar es Salaam has not been addressed. The objectives of this study were (i) to determine the socio-cultural factors associated with the increase in neonatal sepsis, (ii) to determine the local health practices and beliefs associated with increased risk of contracting neonatal sepsis, and (iii) to determine awareness and practices of mothers on neonatal sepsis in Dar es Salaam municipal hospitals. The study design was cross sectional study and 196 mothers/caretakers of the newborn babies from three municipal council hospitals (i.e. Mwananyamala Hospital, Temeke Hospital and Amana Hospital) were interviewed. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of open and closed ended questions for the period of two weeks. The study has shown that there are socio-cultural factors that contribute towards increased risk of contracting neonatal sepsis. These social-cultural factors include preference of seeking medical care from traditional healers, local health practices and beliefs. It is recommended that traditional healers should educate and advise mothers to take their newborn babies to modern health facilities. It is also recommended that sufficient supplies of drugs and cord clamps be provided for cord care to avoid the use of alternative methods and traditional drugs.