08 September 2026

Sepsis, a severe bloodstream infection, has evolved into a major public health threat. When coupled with Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), it directly imperils the future of newborns in Bangladesh. The first 28 days of life constitute an exceptionally fragile window. A bacterial infection invading the bloodstream during this period is clinically defined as neonatal sepsis. This condition stands as a major global health crisis. Annually, over 10 million newborns develop this infection worldwide, resulting in approximately 200,000 to 250,000 deaths.

The situation in Bangladesh is uniquely alarming. Nearly 18,000 newborns die from infections here each year. While neonatal sepsis is multifactorial—driven by complex clinical, environmental, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities—AMR significantly complicates treatment and causes a high number of fatalities. Recognising the symptoms of sepsis remains inherently challenging. An infected infant typically feeds less than usual, exhibits severe lethargy, experiences rapid breathing, and suffers from an abnormally high or low body temperature. Because these clinical presentations mimic common, benign illnesses, diagnostic delays are frequent.

The write-up is a part of Without Borders Media Fellowship by MSF-GARDP Grant on Antimicrobial Resistance, which encourages independent, impartial, and neutral reporting on health and humanitarian crises.