The expert guidelines highlighted in this review provide an evidence-based framework for approaching at-risk infants and allow for a more limited and standardised approach to antibiotic use.

While these guidelines have significantly reduced antibiotic utilisation worldwide, optimally each unit would individualise their approach to early onset sepsis (EOS) based on the neonatal population they serve and available resources.

As advancements in EOS research continue and limitations with sepsis prediction tools are addressed, it is inevitable that our risk stratification and management guidelines will become more precise.