KwaZulu-Natal’s public prosecutions director Shamila Batohi is working closely with police investigating the recent klebsiella outbreak that killed 22 babies at Mahatma Gandhi hospital in Phoenix.
”I confirm meeting the investigating officer and discussing the matter. My office will work closely with the investigating officer, and will be giving guidance during investigations,” Batohi said in a statement on Wednesday.
The health department has investigated the outbreak, which happened earlier this year. Poor hand washing; an overcrowded, understaffed and underequipped neonatal unit; and the repeated use of equipment and medication to save costs were identified as contributing factors.
Batohi said: ”Once investigations are complete, I will take a decision on whether to prosecute or not.”
Meanwhile, a community-based organisation called Voice, which is assisting the parents who lost their babies, said its lawyers have served papers on the department of health asking for all documents relevant to their investigation.
Voice’s legal team will assist the parents on a pro bono basis.
Spokesperson Alvin Brijlal said there is proof that at least 100 babies died between 2003 and 2005 from hospital-acquired infections at Mahatma Gandhi.
Voice is considering whether to bring a civil action against health authorities, or lay criminal charges, or both.
”All the medical staff who treated the babies must tell us why they kept silent,” said Brijlal.
Charges of culpable homicide and negligence are being considered.
”We must get to the bottom of this. We are coming like a tonne of bricks on these guys,” Brijlal said. — Sapa