CMOH initiates probe, forms medical board as panic spreads among families
South Dinajpur: In a disturbing development reminiscent of the expired saline tragedy at Midnapore Medical College, a new incident of alleged medical negligence has emerged from Balurghat Super-Speciality District Hospital, where eight new mothers reportedly fell seriously ill after being administered Amikacin injections.
The incident occurred just days after these women delivered their babies. The Amikacin injection, typically used to prevent post-caesarean infections, reportedly triggered adverse reactions such as severe shivering and respiratory distress shortly after administration. All eight women were swiftly moved to the Critical Care Unit on Friday night and Saturday morning. Hospital authorities confirmed that while all the patients are now stable, they remain under close medical supervision.
Investigation Underway, Committee Formed
Taking swift cognisance of the matter, Dr. Sudip Das, the Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH) of South Dinajpur, visited the hospital with a team of specialists. He confirmed the formation of a 10-member investigation committee to probe the cause of the health deterioration and a three-member medical board to oversee the treatment.
“We are assessing if the reaction was caused by the injection or some other infection. The batch in question has been withdrawn. The operation theatre has been sterilised, and samples from both the injection and OT have been sent for testing,” said Dr. Das.
Timeline and Family Outrage
According to reports, six of the affected women gave birth on Tuesday, while two others had delivered earlier in the week. The sudden deterioration in their health sparked panic and outrage among families, many of whom blamed the hospital staff for gross negligence and demanded accountability.
Not the First Time: A Pattern of Lapses
This incident comes months after the Midnapore Medical College case, where a 21-year-old woman died and four others became critically ill after allegedly being administered expired saline. That episode sparked statewide concern over safety standards in government hospitals, with some of the affected patients needing transfer to S.S.K.M. Medical College in Kolkata for advanced care.
The Road Ahead
The Balurghat incident adds to growing apprehension over healthcare safety in West Bengal, particularly for maternity patients. As investigations continue, public trust remains shaken, with health authorities under pressure to ensure strict monitoring of medical supplies and prevent recurrence of such lapses.
