Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Demands Action on Infant Mortality at Cheluvamba Hospital
In a decisive move, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner G Lakshmikanth Reddy has issued strict directives to health officials to implement all necessary precautionary measures aimed at drastically reducing infant mortality rates at Cheluvamba Hospital. This action comes in response to alarming reports revealing that 23 infants died within 48 hours of admission between January and March of this year.
Detailed Inquiry Ordered into Infant Deaths
Expressing deep concern over the tragic fatalities, Reddy has mandated a comprehensive inquiry to investigate whether delays in referring critical cases to higher medical facilities played a role in these deaths. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the urgency of this investigation during a review meeting held at the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI) Council Hall on Friday.
Reddy urged doctors and nursing staff to intensify their efforts with the ambitious goal of bringing the monthly infant mortality rate down to zero. While acknowledging some progress, with nine infant deaths reported in August, eight in December, and nine in March—figures that are relatively lower compared to other months—he stressed that this is not sufficient.
Push for Zero Infant Deaths Through Timely Referrals
The Deputy Commissioner outlined a clear strategy to achieve this target, instructing officials that critical cases, which cannot be adequately managed at primary health centres or taluk hospitals, must be referred immediately to higher-level medical facilities. He issued a stern warning against retaining serious cases at lower-level hospitals for extended periods, stating that timely referrals are crucial for ensuring better treatment outcomes and saving precious lives.
During the meeting, MMCRI Dean Dr. Dakshayani highlighted ongoing challenges, including staff shortages at Cheluvamba Hospital that may be impacting care quality. Officials also provided data showing a reduction in infant deaths from 15 in January to 9 in March, indicating some improvement but underscoring the need for continued vigilance and action.
Reddy reiterated that while current numbers are in the single digits, the ultimate objective must be to eliminate infant deaths entirely. He called for a collaborative effort from all healthcare personnel to enhance protocols, improve response times, and ensure that every infant receives the highest standard of medical attention possible.
