Health authorities probing deaths of 24 babies at Victoria Jubilee Hospital in Kingston

Health officials are investigating the deaths of at least 24 babies at Victoria Jubilee Hospital in Kingston since June 1, sparking concerns about a possible outbreak at the region’s largest maternity facility.

The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) confirmed to Observer Online on Thursday that a high-level meeting is currently underway to assess the situation. However, officials have not yet provided details on the cause of the deaths, and a formal statement is expected once the ongoing assessment is completed.

The Victoria Jubilee Hospital—recognized as the largest maternity hospital in the English-speaking Caribbean—has faced scrutiny in the past. In 2022, 12 infants died following a bacterial outbreak at the facility. That outbreak, identified in July of that year, resulted in seven deaths that month, with additional fatalities occurring through October.

Nationwide News sources have indicated that there are currently no confirmed reports of a new outbreak. Instead, it's understood that the hospital has seen an increase in premature births in recent weeks, with some of the infants reportedly stillborn.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacqueline Bisasor McKenzie said she was unable to provide a detailed comment at this time.

Health authorities are expected to release more information following the completion of the internal review.