THE Eastern Cape health department is investigating the death of 29 babies at the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in East London, a spokesperson said
"MEC Sicelo Gqobana has ordered a probe into death of 29 neonates... being treated at the hospital's paediatric intensive care unit," spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo said.
He said the babies died in January.
The matter was not reported to the department, which only became aware of it this week following media enquiries.
Preliminary investigations by hospital authorities revealed that 23 of the 29 babies were referrals from clinics and hospitals around East London.
A team of epidemiologists, senior officials and doctors has been sent to the hospital as part of the investigation. It would also look at infection prevention control issues.
Kupelo said the department would receive 100 additional emergency vehicles next month, and was also considering getting specialised ambulances for pregnant women and newborn babies.
Death of 29 babies probed
THE Eastern Cape health department is investigating the death of 29 babies at the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in East London, a spokesperson said
"MEC Sicelo Gqobana has ordered a probe into death of 29 neonates... being treated at the hospital's paediatric intensive care unit," spokesperson Sizwe Kupelo said.
He said the babies died in January.
The matter was not reported to the department, which only became aware of it this week following media enquiries.
Preliminary investigations by hospital authorities revealed that 23 of the 29 babies were referrals from clinics and hospitals around East London.
A team of epidemiologists, senior officials and doctors has been sent to the hospital as part of the investigation. It would also look at infection prevention control issues.
Kupelo said the department would receive 100 additional emergency vehicles next month, and was also considering getting specialised ambulances for pregnant women and newborn babies.
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