Infant mortality rate declines in RP

MANILA, Philippines – Infant mortality in the Philippines continues to decline due to improved immunization and oral rehydration campaigns, the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) said yesterday.

In a statement, Unicef said the Philippines compares well with other developing countries with today’s rate of 32 deaths per 1,000 live births, down from 40 in 2000.

Most of the deaths occur in the neonatal period, or the first few weeks of life, and the primary causes of death are diarrhea and pneumonia or acute respiratory infections, the Unicef said.

“Thanks to improved immunization drives and better use of oral rehydration salts to treat dehydration in infants, the Philippines is on track to meet the Millennium Development Goal (MDG),” said Colin Davis, deputy representative of UNICEF Philippines.

“But there are still too many children dying before their fifth birthday from preventable diseases. By encouraging simple interventions such as exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and early detection of under nutrition in infants, many more lives could be saved,” Colin said. – Helen Flores, (The Philippine Star)