The first NeoIPC Surveillance Reference Report is now available for download. This publication presents data collected from neonatal units in Estonia, Germany, Greece, Italy, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, all participating in the NeoIPC surveillance since its launch in November 2023.The report offers insights into hospital-acquired infections among high-risk newborns, meaning those with a birth weight under 1,500 grams or a gestational age under 32 weeks. It allows neonatal care teams to benchmark their infection rates against aggregated data from other participating units.Hospital-acquired infections remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal units, especially among premature and low birth weight infants. The report draws on 994 patient records, offering a detailed analysis of factors influencing risk of infections. These include gestational age, birth weight, surgical procedures and the use of invasive devices such as vascular catheters and mechanical ventilation. It also provides data on the incidence of various hospital-acquired infections, including sepsis, bloodstream infections, pneumonia and necrotising enterocolitis, alongside detection rates of infectious agents.This report provides the first multinational reference dataset of its kind, offering an evidence-based foundation to guide infection control programmes, establish surveillance and prevention benchmarks, and support investments in staff training, infrastructure and data systems aimed at reducing hospital-acquired infections. 

Join the NeoIPC surveillance

The NeoIPC surveillance system is a core component of NeoIPC's mission to improve infection prevention and control in neonatology. We encourage NICUs across Europe and around the world to explore the report and consider participating in this important initiative. Learn more about the NeoIPC surveillance and how to join.