Tamil Nadu’s Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has dropped to an all-time low of 17, dropping two points, as per the latest figures released as part of the Sample Registration Survey.
The main reasons that accounts for the fall of IMR are,
Access to affordable health care at the neo natal stage
The impact of good vaccination coverage (MR and against Rota Virus)
The dip in higher order births (Only 8 out of every 100 women have more than two children)
Efforts have been made to improve the care available to the new born through the Neonatal ICU (NICU) and comprehensive emergency obstetric care for the mothers.
With over 99% of deliveries being institutionalised in the State, the chances for maternal and infant deaths have reduced substantially.
The recent emphasis on exclusive breastfeeding for six months since birth is bound to have had an impact in improving outcomes.