More newborns testing positive for drugs

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – The Oklahoma Department of Human Services says hospitals in the state are reporting an increasing number of newborns who tested positive for drugs or alcohol at birth.

The Oklahoman reports the agency listed 375 addicted newborns in the 12-months ending June 30th, the latest data available. Of those, 42 babies showed symptoms of withdrawal, which can include seizures, excessive crying, fever, sweating and vomiting.

Last year, DHS reported 322 newborns tested positive for drugs or alcohol. The new data indicates a 16.5 percent increase. The data is approximate because mothers and newborns aren’t routinely tested.

Of the 375 drug-exposed newborns in the report, DHS substantiated abuse or neglect in 187 cases. In 68 of the cases, the agency recommended removing the child from the home due to drug use.