Bacteria Has Led to Death of 18 Babies Since July, Jamaicans Urged Not to Panic
18 babies have reportedly died in Jamaica after being infected with a bacteria called Klebsiella but health officials have stated there is no need to panic.
According to Loop News, National Epidemiologist, Dr Karen Webster, yesterday (October 20) reported that a total of 18 babies were killed from an infection that is common among babies who are born premature or underweight.
She made the announcement at a press conference called by the Ministry of Health at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston.
“There were 42 infections of babies at the University Hospital of the West Indies and the Cornwall Regional Hospital resulting in 18 deaths,” Webster said.
Recent reports that several new born babies died after being infected by a “mystery bug”, saw many Jamaicans become overwhelmed with fear.
However, Webster asked Jamaicans not to panic as infections among underweight neo-nates (a child 28 days and younger) are common worldwide.
The infections are caused by improper hand hygiene, bed spacing on maternity wards, mother to child infection, an unclean environment and shortage of equipment such as gloves.
She said the infection, known as Klebsiella, is common worldwide including first world states such the United States and Europe.
“It is almost impossible to eliminate health-care related infections. Babies born under seven months or two and a half pounds are particularly challenged,” she said.