P39: Other infections specific to the perinatal period

P39.9: Infection specific to the perinatal period, unspecified

Infections specific to the perinatal period are those that occur during the time shortly before and after birth, typically from 28 weeks of gestation to 7 days after birth. These infections are unspecified, which means they could involve various bacterial, viral, or other types of pathogens. They might be transmitted from the mother to the baby during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, or they could be contracted from the environment after birth. Common symptoms could include fever, lethargy, irritability, difficulty feeding, and rapid breathing. The progression of these infections varies based on the causing agent and the baby's health condition. If left untreated, they could lead to serious complications, impacting numerous systems in the baby's body such as the respiratory, digestive, neurological and immune systems.