Contaminated air at Camagüey Pediatric Hospital puts children at risk, family members report

Poor ventilation in the pediatric hospital of Camagüey worsens the health of already ill children. Families report accumulated dust causing respiratory issues. A similar crisis is occurring at the Oncology Hospital.

Pediatric hospital of Camagüey, reference imagePhoto © Granma

Related videos:

Families reported that the central air conditioning in a cubicle of the intermediate therapy unit of the pediatric hospital in Camagüey is filled with dust and, instead of relieving patients, causes colds and respiratory complications in children admitted for other ailments.

The alert was disclosed by the independent journalist José Luis Tan Estrada in a post on social media.

According to the report, the ventilation system is not being maintained, resulting in air circulation with accumulated dirt in the space of cubicle 1 of the intermediate therapy where beds 1 and 2 are located.

Parents assert that children, already in a delicate condition, are exposed to an avoidable risk that could worsen their clinical situation.

Facebook capture / José Luis Tan Estrada

“My son was there a few weeks ago. Beyond addressing the condition he was admitted for, we left with a cold due to the dust accumulated in that air,” reported one of the consulted family members, in a testimony that highlights the ongoing issue.

The situation is not new and adds to the deficiencies already highlighted in the hospital sector of the province by Tan Estrada himself, who has pointed out the lack of equipment, poor hygiene, and inadequate care that increase the vulnerability of pediatric patients.

Facebook Capture / José Luis Tan Estrada

The Camagüey Oncological Hospital is also facing a severe health crisis due to a roach infestation. This infestation affects practically all the hospital's facilities, putting at risk patients, companions, and healthcare workers, especially those with compromised immune systems.

The presence of pests and unsanitary conditions in hospitals compromises the safety of treatments and the recovery of patients.

The risks include exposure to infectious diseases such as staphylococci and streptococci, as well as a potential negative impact on the health of immunocompromised patients.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Health Crisis in Hospitals in Camagüey

What is the main health issue at the Camagüey Pediatric Hospital?

The main health issue at the Pediatric Hospital of Camagüey is the lack of maintenance of the ventilation system, which results in the air being filled with dust. This has led to respiratory complications for the admitted children, according to family complaints. Furthermore, the unsanitary conditions extend to other areas of the hospital, with the presence of cockroaches and stagnant urine.

What other health hazards have been reported in the hospitals of Camagüey?

In addition to the polluted air, roach infestations have been reported at the Camagüey Oncology Hospital, as well as unsanitary conditions in the restrooms of the Manuel Ascunce Domenech Provincial Hospital. These issues include broken toilets, damp walls, and a constant foul smell, which pose a risk of serious infections.

What are the consequences of these conditions on the health of patients?

The unsanitary conditions in hospitals in Camagüey increase the risk of infections such as staphylococci and streptococci, which are especially dangerous for immunocompromised patients. Children admitted for other ailments may suffer respiratory complications, and pests and a lack of hygiene jeopardize the safety of treatments and the recovery of patients.

What measures have been taken to address these issues in the hospitals of Camagüey?

Until now, no specific official measures have been reported to address the health issues in the hospitals of Camagüey. Complaints have been continuous from families and independent journalists, but the lack of effective response from the authorities continues to put patients at risk.

Filed under:

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.