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Neonatal Conjunctivitis

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment will depend on the type of infection.

Babies born to mothers with Neisseria gonorrhoeae\ bacteria. The infection is usually acquired through sexual contact. ',CAPTION,'Gonorrhea in Females');" onmouseout="return nd();">gonorrhea are given oral antibiotics right after birth.

Babies born to mothers with Chlamydia trachomatis\. Sexually transmitted disease refers to any contagious disease transmitted from one person to another during sexual contact. In women, the infection usually occurs in the urinary tract, pelvis, or cervix. The cervix is the opening between the vagina and the uterus. ',CAPTION,'Chlamydia Infection in Females');" onmouseout="return nd();">chlamydia need to take oral antibiotics, such as erythromycin.

Newborns with gonococcal conjunctivitis need to be hospitalized and treated with an antibiotic, such as ceftriaxone.

Conjunctivitis and pneumonia caused by chlamydia is treated with an oral antibiotic, such as erythromycin.

Infants with gonococcal or pseudomonas conjunctivitis will be given regular saline eye rinses.

Infants with conjunctivitis caused by pseudomonas or staphylococcus are treated with intravenous, or IV, antibiotics.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

The silver nitrate drops put in newborns' eyes to prevent infection can also cause mild irritation. This goes away by itself in a day or two without lasting damage. Topical antibiotics may cause an allergic reaction. Oral antibiotics may cause stomach upset, rash, or allergic reactions.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

The healthcare provider will evaluate the baby to see how the conjunctivitis is clearing up. If symptoms continue or progress, further treatment may be necessary.

How is the disease monitored?

Babies should be watched to make sure the infection does not return after treatment. Mothers of infants with neonatal conjunctivitis should be tested and treated for STDs when appropriate. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

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