Final answer:
Preterm babies are more likely to have infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems and increased exposure to pathogens during and after birth. Conditions like PPROM and infections contracted from the mother further elevate this risk. Advanced medical care and quick access to treatment are essential for reducing the risk of infections in these vulnerable infants.
Step-by-step explanation:
Preterm babies may have a higher chance of infection due to several factors associated with their premature birth. The immune system of preterm babies is not as developed as that of full-term babies, making them more susceptible to infections. Conditions such as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) increase the risk of intrauterine infections. Furthermore, during childbirth, infants may contract infections such as caused by S. agalactiae from the mother's vagina, leading to early onset neonatal infection. The risk is also elevated for late-onset neonatal meningitis, particularly in infants born to mothers with S. agalactiae or those who experience a fever during labor. It should also be noted that a downregulated immune system during pregnancy can result in pathogens crossing the placenta, posing a threat to the fetus.
In addition, there are environmental factors influencing neonatal care. Access to advanced medical care is pivotal for the survival and health of preterm infants. As illustrated in some studies, financial technologies such as mobile money transfers can expedite access to medical care, thereby reducing infant mortality by providing quicker treatment for infections.