Observation on the newborn at risk of early-onset sepsis: the approach of the Emilia-Romagna Region (Italy)

Key words: Group B streptococcus, Sepsis, Newborn infant, Prophylaxis

The approach to the newborn at risk of early-onset sepsis is a challenge. In the past the approach was mainly based on laboratory tests, which were poorly predictive and might cause repeated blood samples and unnecessary antibiotic therapies, with possible long-term side effects. The medicalisation of asymptomatic newborns also interferes with breastfeeding. Recent experiences carried out in the Friuli Venezia Giulia and Emilia-Romagna Regions (Italy) have suggested that a less invasive approach is useful. This approach is mainly based on careful and repeated clinical observations of asymptomatic full-term or late preterm infants at standard intervals, regardless of risk factors. Moreover, it is useful for a timely diagnosis, does not separate mothers from their neonates and consequently does not interfere with the development of the nascent intestinal microbiota and breastfeeding.