Bacterial strain cited for deaths of newborns

child

Without advanced care, babies often die from post-infectious hydrocephalus caused by infections during their early weeks of life. PHOTO | SHUTTERSTOCK

A groundbreaking discovery in Uganda, where paediatric hydrocephalus or “water on the brain,” is alarmingly prevalent, has revealed that a previously unidentified bacterial strain could be the cause of widespread newborn deaths.

This devastating neurological condition is caused by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid deep within the cavities that cushion the brain, leading to harmful pressure on the brain tissues and eventually enlargement of the head.