VEHARI: Two minors died at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the children’s ward at DHQ hospital here on Wednesday evening allegedly due to suspension of oxygen supply.

The minors aged four and five years were under treatment at the ICU. According to their fathers, Allah Rakha and Arshad, oxygen supply to the ICU was suspended for half an hour, as a result of which both the minors died on the spot.

The parents alleged that the deaths occurred due to negligence of the staff deputed in the children’s ward of the ICU. They alleged that the staff did not ensure provision of oxygen on time after its suspension that resulted in the deaths of their children.

However, Dr Fazal, the medical superintendent, told Dawn that allegations of suspension of oxygen in the children’s ward were baseless. He claimed there was no shortage of oxygen in the hospital.

He further said that he was in Lahore for a meeting however he would inquire into the matter after returning to Vehari. He also stated that a couple of deaths in the children’s ward was a routine matter.

Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2019