At least 11 newborn babies have died after a fire blazed through a public hospital’s neonatal unit in Senegal, the president of the West African nation said Thursday.
One family was already grieving when they got the call. Adama Diagne, 55, said her daughter-in-law died three weeks ago during childbirth — the infant, her grandson, lost his life in the blaze.A politician and public works engineer, Cheikh Bamba Dièye,
for a thorough review of Senegal’s medical centers, saying he was “appalled by the horrific and unacceptable death” following a “recurrence of tragedies.”fire at a maternity ward in the northern town of Linguère. At the time, the mayor blamed anAmnesty International’s Senegal director, Seydi Gassama, demanded action from the nation’s leaders Wednesday, saying this kind of accident had become a pattern.
Yacine Thiobane, a social worker in Tivaouane, said she was called to the hospital just before midnight Wednesday to comfort families. She found a heart-wrenching scene: People gathered outside. Sobbing mothers. Firefighters removing the bodies. “The babies were burned to death,” Thiobane said. “The reality is, the system is sick and needs reform.”Health officials in Senegal said they were launching an investigation. Emergency responders remained at the wreckage Thursday morning. An electrical short circuit probably ignited the fire, officials said on television.
“To their mothers and their families, I express my deepest sympathy,” Senegalese President Macky SallMaternity care in Senegal was already under scrutiny following the recent death of a woman in labor who asked for and was denied a Caesarean section.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
11 newborn babies die in fire at Senegal hospital11 newborn babies have died in a fire at a regional hospital in Senegal, officials say, prompting outrage and calls for an investigation.
Read more »
11 newborns killed as fire tears through hospital in SenegalA series of other deaths also have raised concerns about maternal and infant health in the West African nation known for having some of the best hospitals in the region.
Read more »
Massacre in Mexico: 11 people killed in attack on two barsAt least 11 people, eight of them women, reportedly died after an attack Monday night at two bars, including one inside a hotel, in Mexico. Five others were injured.
Read more »
North Oakland’s ‘Daughters of the Delta’ concerts set for June 11-12The anthology performance will honor four historic Black women musicians and Louisiana culture.
Read more »
Jose Trevino's big night lifts Yankees over Orioles in 11 inningsJose Trevino's single in the 11th lifted the Yankees to a 7-6 win over Orioles on Tuesday. Young catcher finished 3-for-4 with a homer and 3 RBIs. RepBX
Read more »