111 newborns dead at Adani-run hospital in 5-months; probe ordered
The Gujarat Government has ordered an inquiry into the deaths of 111 newborns in five months at the Adani Education and Research Foundation-run GK General Hospital in Bhuj, Gujarat. As per the data released by the hospital, 111 infants died in the first five months of 2018, ending May 20. The government formed a team of experts to conduct the inquiry. Here's more.
We will take appropriate steps, says Gujarat Commissioner of Health
"We have formed a team of experts to probe reasons behind these deaths. We will take appropriate steps after the team submits its report," Gujarat Commissioner of Health Jayanti Ravi said.
111 out of 777 newborns did not survive
According to data shared by hospital superintendent, GS Rao, out of 777 newborn babies (both admitted post-birth and those born in the hospital) between January 1 and May 20, 111 did not survive, which shows a mortality rate of 14%. In 2017, 258 infants had died, while 184 and 164 infants had died in the hospital in 2016 and 2015, respectively.
This year's mortality rate is less than previous years
"The percentage of deaths against admission was 19% in 2015, 18% in 2016, and 21% in 2017. This year (till May), the mortality rate is 14%, it is less than previous years and it will remain lowest at the end of this year," Rao added.
Reasons for deaths, according to the hospital
"One of the reasons for death is pre-mature births. Another is malnutrition as mothers may not have taken proper diet. Delayed reference is also one of the reasons," said Rao. "If a family comes here by traveling 250km, the delay would certainly affect the chances of survival. Our staff regularly discuss these issues among ourselves. We are working to reduce the deaths," he added.
