KUCHING – A baby who reportedly died while on a bus trip with his mother from Kuching to Sarikei recently could have succumbed to meningitis, according to the Sarawak Health Department.
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. A bacterial or viral infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord usually causes the swelling.
State Health Director Dr Ooi Choo Huck said the possible cause of death was reached based on an interview with the baby’s parents, medical records, and a physical examination of the infant.
“According to the final investigation report on the issue, the 3-month-old boy died on the bus while travelling with his mother from Kuching to Sarikei on December 4 for the purpose of getting traditional treatment,” he said in a statement today.
He added that the mother realised that her child was not breathing when they stopped at the Jelukong bus stop, Sri Aman and he was then taken to the nearby Betong Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
“However, the post-mortem was not performed because the family did not agree and the baby’s body was later brought home by the family and buried,” he said.
The case went viral on social media after which the state Health Department conducted an investigation to obtain complete details about the matter.
Dr Ooi advised the public to immediately bring their unwell children to the nearest health facility, such as a clinic or hospital. – Bernama pic, December 19, 2022
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