LUCKNOW, Nov. 17 -- Premature infants are more likely to have problems in breathing, maintaining body temperature and feeding. They are also more likely to develop an infection. The mother, who is the best nurse for her preterm baby, must remember that she must wash her hands with soap and water frequently and not allow visitors to come and touch the baby.

These are what Prof Anju Agarwal, head of the obstetrics and gynaecology department at Queen Mary's Hospital here, said on the eve of World Prematurity Day, which is observed on November 17.

Dr Agarwal further said that Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is important to improve the survival of such infants. It must be given for maximum time during the day with a minimum of 8 hours per day til...