The Connecticut Newborn Screening Program

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The Connecticut Newborn Screening Program

Every baby born in Connecticut receives a newborn screening (NBS) blood-spot test. This is done by taking a few drops of blood from the baby’s heel one to three days after birth. The blood is sent to the state public health lab where it is tested for over 60 health problems.
Newborn Foot

Babies with one of these health problems may not look sick when they are born. But they can have slow brain growth and trouble eating and gaining weight. They can become very sick and sometimes die. NBS helps to find babies with these health problems, so treatment can start early. Early treatment can help prevent serious illness and death.

If the blood-spot test shows that a baby may have a health problem, a NBS program nurse will call the baby’s doctor. The nurse may request a second blood-spot test or suggest the baby follow up with a special doctor. This doctor will determine whether the baby has the health problem and start treatment if needed.

Click on a link below or contact us for more information about newborn screening.