Nicosia, Cyprus. Police have launched an investigation into the brain death of a four-year-old boy while he was being transferred to Makarios hospital in Nicosia on July 14. The state health services organisation, Okypy, said statements had already been taken from personnel involved.
Investigations underway
Okypy said its own internal investigation, which had been launched earlier, would continue in line with the organisation’s procedures and regulations.
The organisation said it was important to uphold the principles of the rule of law, including the presumption of innocence, until the relevant procedures are completed.
Okypy said it would fully cooperate with the authorities and provide all necessary assistance during the police investigation.
Mother’s allegations
The internal investigation was launched after the boy’s mother publicly alleged that her son’s brain death resulted from the handling of his case by his paediatrician and staff at Limassol general hospital.
According to the mother’s account, the boy developed a fever on July 8 and remained in his parents’ care while they were in contact with his paediatrician, who prescribed medication and ordered tests in the following days.
When his condition did not improve, he was taken to Limassol general hospital, where he was diagnosed with meningitis.
As his condition deteriorated, his parents requested his transfer to Makarios hospital in Nicosia. According to the complaint, the boy suffered brain death during the transfer on July 14.