The infant is very vulnerable to infection because the skin is immature and easily traumatized, thus weakening the defense against pathogens.

The baby also has a lower resistance to infection because of a white blood cell count that is lower than the term infant.

Protective measures include:

a. A restriction on all staff who have an infection.

b. Meticulous handwashing.

c. Gowning regulations.

d. Separate premature nursery.

e. Contact with only essential authorized personnel

f. Cleanliness of immediate environment.