Better Cord Care Saves Babies Lives in Nepal

Through application of chlorhexidine on the umbilical stump, we can reduce newborn mortality by 25%
The Problem
1 out of 30 newborns in Nepal were dying in the first month of life, most from serious infection, accounting for 40% of newborn deaths.

The Innovation
JSI has found that applying a gel form of the antiseptic chlorhexidine (CHX) reduces the risk of infection. The product is inexpensive and without serious risk, and is easy to use for the 2/3 births that occur at home.

The Vision
Close to 100% of Nepals newborns will have CHX applied to the cord stump at birth, resulting in a reduction in mortality of about 25%. Nepal will serve as a model country from which other countries in the region and beyond will draw lessons to develop their own newborn sepsis prevention programs.

Progress
JSI, in partnership with the Ministry of Health of Nepal and other partners, has: Completed research determining that gel formulation is preferable. Worked with a local private sector partner to develop and register a branded product. Piloted a scalable program in 4 districts of Nepal, distributing CHX to health facilities for institutional deliveries and through community health workers and antenatal care visits for home deliveries.

Strategy Proposed
Incorporating application of CHX into routine immediate care of the newborn for institutional deliveries. Ensuring provision of CHX late in pregnancy to women at risk of home delivery. Incorporating CHX into socially marketed Clean Delivery Kits.