WHO issues updated guidance on managing serious bacterial infections in infants

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated global recommendations to improve diagnosis and treatment of serious bacterial infections (SBIs) in young infants aged 0–59 days, including sepsis, meningitis and pneumonia – conditions that contribute to over half a million newborn deaths annually worldwide.

 The new guidelines are designed to strengthen clinical decision-making and promote the rational use of antibiotics to help combat rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in resource-limited settings. Developed through a rigorous evidence review and expert consultation process, the recommendations include both hospital and community-based treatment protocols, ensuring that even infants without access to referral hospitals receive life-saving care. 

In Indonesia, newborn mortality remains a significant concern. Infections in newborns account for 14% of late newborn mortality and 6% of early newborn mortality. Home births and harmful practices – such as the use of traditional remedies for umbilical cord care – increase the risk of infections and remain common in remote and underserved areas. More than 11% of newborns in Indonesia – or about 495 000 annually – are born premature and are therefore particularly vulnerable to infections due to their immature immune system.   

Key updates in the new WHO guidance include the use of the WHO 7-sign Integrated Management of Childhood Illness algorithm to identify SBIs at the community level, as well as recommendations for simplified antibiotic regimens when hospital referral is not feasible. The guidance also emphasizes the need for strong referral systems, risk group classification and careful antibiotic stewardship. 

In Indonesia, implementation of the guidance will complement key national strategies to reduce newborn mortality and improve child health outcomes under the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025–2029, the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (RAN-PARAM) and Sustainable Development Goal 3. 

The guidance underscores the importance of multisectoral collaboration to ensure the effective delivery of care for young infants at risk of SBI, which WHO will continue to actively support. 

Download the “WHO recommendations for management of serious bacterial infections in infants aged 0–59 days” here: Management of serious bacterial infections in young infants aged 0–59 days