Malda Medical College reports 10 newborn deaths in a day, Health Dept seeks report

Malda: In a concerning development, 10 newborns died in a single day at Malda Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal, prompting the state health department to seek a detailed report from the hospital authorities.

West Bengal Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee confirmed that the department had sought details on the circumstances surrounding each infant's death, including the causes and medical conditions involved. The hospital authorities have already submitted a preliminary report to Swasthya Bhavan and are expected to submit a detailed report shortly.

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The minister also pointed to a rodent infestation at the hospital, adding another concern about the condition at the medical facility.

According to hospital sources, eight of the 10 infants had been referred to Malda Medical College from other government hospitals and private nursing homes. The infants were reportedly brought to the medical college in critical condition and were suffering from complications including respiratory distress, jaundice and cardiac problems.

Speaking to India Today, Medical Superintendent Prasenjit Bar said, “Ten infants died in a single day at Malda Medical College. However, only two of them were born at this facility; the others had been referred here from outside in critical condition.” He said that Swasthya Bhavan had sought a report on the deaths. “We have already submitted a preliminary report to the health department, and the comprehensive report will be sent shortly,” Bar added.

State Health Department sources said around 60 infants had died at the hospital during August. Of these, 44 had been born at other health facilities and were referred to Malda Medical College and Hospital for treatment. The remaining 16 infants died after being delivered at the hospital.

The figures have drawn attention to the challenges faced by the hospital, which caters to a large population across Malda and neighbouring areas.

The infant mortality rate in West Bengal is 17, lower than India’s 25, with the State ranking 14th among 30 States and Union Territories, reports The Hindu.

The detailed report sought by the health department is expected to examine the circumstances of each case, including the infants' condition on arrival, the treatment provided and the immediate causes of death.

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