Infant mortality rate drops in Karnal

editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Karnal, June 20

The efforts of the Health Department have bore fruit as the district has witnessed a downfall in the infant mortality rate (IMR), which has always been a challenge for the department.

However, the risks of stillbirth and death of a baby before or during the delivery is still a major cause of concern. During a research on the reasons for such deaths, the department has found that a lack of awareness about pregnancy, nutritional deficiency, lower haemoglobin, and a lack of seriousness in taking healthy diet among expectant mothers are major reasons behind it.

Sources in the department said during the last year 27,515 infants were born. Of them, 1,541 infants died — 909 died after birth and 632 were stillborn. The IMR was 33 per 1,000 live births.

Till the end of May this year, 78 infant deaths had been reported and 51 were stillborn. Dr Neelam Verma, Deputy Civil Surgeon, said premature deliveries were also a reason of high IMR and expectant mothers should take care of their diet.

Dr SL Verma, Civil Surgeon, said: “A newborn care unit has been established in Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College Hospital to help curb the problem. 15 room warmers and four phototherapy machines have been installed.” Accredited Social Health Activists and Anganwadi workers also monitor the health of expectant mothers in their respective areas, he said.