Introduction: Corneal opacities in children are relatively common. In children, it is urgent because of the risk of irreversible amblyopia. The causes of these blindnesses vary considerably according to the regions of the world. Chlorhexidine digluconate is a broad-spectrum antiseptic directed against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It has been used as an antiseptic for more than 50 years, both in humans and in animals. However, despite these benefits, it can cause serious damage if applied to the eyes. Incidents of eye damage with 7.1% chlorhexidine have been reported to WHO across Africa. Observation: We report and write two cases of bilateral corneal blindness caused by accidental ocular use of chlorhexidine (HEXZ) GEL 7.1% in two newborns in the health district of Kati in MALI. The ophthalmological examination had revealed corneal opacity, conjunctival hyperaemia and limbic ischemia greater than 50% in 1 eye out of 4, corresponding to stage IV of the ROPPER HALL classification; 2 eyes out of 4 were at stage III and 1 eye out of 4 was at stage I of the same classification. Conclusion: It is essential to ensure correct use of chlorhexidine digluconate gel 7%. It is an antiseptic which should not be used on the ocular and auditory mucous membranes, at the risk of most often permanent burns.

Introduction: Neonatal and child morbidity is a threat to socio-economic and health progress in sub-Saharan Africa. In paediatric in-patient practice, knowledge of morbidity is important for health care personnel to ensure optimal patient management. The frequency of these pathologies varies between countries. Objective: The objective of our study was to identify the main morbidities in children hospitalised in the paediatric ward of the commune II health centre. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study from 1 January to 31 December 2017. We included all children aged 01 month to 15 years hospitalized in the pediatric ward. The study included 418 children aged 0 to 15 years hospitalised in the department during the study period. Results: Children aged 0 to 5 years were the most represented 89.4% with a majority in the 0 to 1 month age group (39%). Males were the most represented with 58%, i.e. a M/F sex ratio of 1.4. ). The children's mothers were not in school in 78% of cases and were housewives in 70%, and 95% of the parents were married. Socioeconomic status was very low in 34% of families. The patients consulted after 1 to 2 days in 47.1% of cases. Admission to the service was direct in 84% and hospitalisation was more frequent between July and November in 66.3%. The reasons for hospitalization of children were dominated by fever 39% followed by respiratory difficulties 29% and convulsions 10%. Malaria was the first cause of hospitalization with 30%.