LAUTECH students protest relocation of Anatomy, Physiology departments

BENIN CITY – THE management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) on Tuesday described as misleading reports, that a death had occurred in the hospital as a result of complications arising from the administering of the Measles-Rubella vaccine.

There was a panic among some parents on Monday when the news of the death broke but the state government denied any connection of the said death to the vaccine.

A statement by the Head, Head, Public Relations and Information Unit of the hospital, Osaretin Iyen made available to journalists said all the children except one who was a sickle cell patient, were stabilised and discharged.

The statement also stated that there was no evidence that the death of the sickle patient had anything to do with the vaccine.

“Management wishes to clarify that some children who had febrile illness were brought to UBTH Children Emergency Ward for medical attention. All such children were treated, stabilized, and subsequently discharged home in good health

However, an 8-year-old male child with sickle cell disease who was admitted for treatment alongside others in the Children Emergency Ward of the hospital died. There is no evidence to suggest that the Measles–Rubella vaccine caused or contributed to the death in question.

“Management wishes to further reassure the public that vaccines including the Measles–Rubella vaccine, are safe, effective, and approved by national and international health authorities.

“UBTH remains committed to patient safety, public health, and transparent communication. The hospital urges the media and the public to rely on verified information from credible health institutions and to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated reports that may cause unnecessary public concern.

“The hospital extends its sympathy to the affected family and reassures the public of its unwavering dedication to the health and well-being of all patients.”

Culled from vanguard