Mysuru: A week-old preterm baby boy died Thursday at Cheluvamba Hospital in Mysuru, triggering a controversy after the parents alleged the infant died due to ant bites. Hospital authorities have denied the allegation, saying the marks seen on the baby’s body were caused by endotracheal intubation. Mysuru Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI) has also ordered a postmortem and an inquiry to establish the exact cause of death.MMCRI dean and director Dr KR Dakshayini told TOI Neelamma of Agrahara delivered the 28-week premature baby on April 15. The newborn was undergoing treatment in the ICU of Cheluvamba Hospital for respiratory complications, which are common among extremely premature babies.Doctors said the parents raised the ant-bite allegation after noticing marks on the baby’s face and stomach region. However, they maintained that these were intubation-related marks. The parents may have developed doubts after spotting an ant near the incubator earlier and observing the nature of the injuries.Dr Dakshayini said a postmortem would be conducted Friday to establish the exact cause of death, as the parents have questioned it. An inquiry has also been ordered into the incident.The case has raised concerns over neonatal care and hygiene standards at the govt hospital.
