Larnaca, Cyprus. Authorities have launched an investigation after a complaint that a newborn suffered burns during a bath at Larnaca general hospital and was transferred to Makarios hospital in Nicosia for treatment.
Complaint and alleged incident
The complaint was filed by the child’s mother, who alleges hospital staff placed the newborn in water at an excessively high temperature shortly after birth, causing burns to the infant’s legs.
According to the mother’s account, the incident took place during routine postnatal care. She said the child was placed in hot water during bathing, resulting in visible injuries to the lower extremities.
Transfer and medical care
The baby’s condition required transfer to Makarios hospital, where he remains under medical care. Medical sources said the infant is receiving appropriate care, with reports suggesting the condition is stable.
Parallel inquiries
Both the police and the state health services organisation (Okypy) have initiated parallel inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Speaking to the Cyprus Mail, Okypy spokesperson Charalambos Charilaou confirmed that the matter is under active investigation. “The incident is already being examined by the competent services,” he said, without providing further detail on findings at this stage.
What changes, if any, should hospitals make to postnatal bathing procedures to prevent similar incidents?
