The ratio of number of infants (children below the age of 1 year) that die before the completion of 1 year in an area to the number of 1000 children born in that area is called infant mortality rate.

--> better medical facilities

--> medical camps in rural areas

--> hospitals in every locality

--> measures that ensure proper nutrition to all pregnant mothers.

Measures to Keep Infant Mortality Rate Low

Infant mortality rate is a significant indicator of a country's healthcare system. It reflects the level of care provided to newborn babies and their mothers. The following are two measures that can keep the infant mortality rate low:

1. Improve Maternal Health Care

Maternal health care is the most crucial aspect of lowering infant mortality rates. Ensuring that mothers have access to quality healthcare during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period can significantly reduce the risk of infant deaths. Here are some ways to improve maternal health care:

• Provide prenatal care: Regular prenatal check-ups can help detect and treat any potential complications early on.


• Offer skilled birth attendance: Skilled midwives or doctors should attend all births to ensure that the mother and baby receive proper care.


• Promote breastfeeding: Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients that help protect the baby from infections and diseases.


• Offer postpartum care: Providing postpartum care can help mothers recover from childbirth and detect any potential complications.

2. Improve Access to Immunization

Immunization is one of the most effective ways to prevent infant deaths. It offers protection against diseases that can cause severe illness or death in infants. Here are some ways to improve access to immunization:

• Provide free or low-cost immunizations: Governments and healthcare organizations can provide free or low-cost immunizations to ensure that all infants are protected.


• Implement immunization programs: Immunization programs can be implemented to ensure that infants receive all the necessary vaccines at the appropriate time.


• Offer education on the importance of immunization: Educating parents and caregivers on the importance of immunization can help increase vaccination rates.


• Ensure vaccine safety: Ensuring the safety of vaccines can help build trust in the immunization program and encourage parents to vaccinate their infants.

Conclusion

Improving maternal health care and access to immunization are two essential measures that can keep the infant mortality rate low. Governments, healthcare organizations, and individuals must work together to ensure that all infants receive the care and protection they need to thrive.