Sattur HIV transfusion case: Victim’s child being closely monitored

A blood test will be conducted after 45 days to check of any possibilities of the baby having contracted the disease from her mother. At 1.75 kg, the baby is underweight and therefore kept under special care.

Stating that the baby is being given the Nevirapine syrup since Day 1 to prevent HIV, Dr S Shanmugasundaram, Dean at Government Rajaji Hospital, Madurai, said, “We will continue administering this medication for six to 12 weeks. We are also administering the immunoglobin injection for Hepatitis B, besides the vaccine as well.”

“She is admitted at the New-born Intensive Care Unit (NICU) here and kept warmer. Besides, we are also administering IV fluids and other supportive measures. Once she gains some weight, we will be able to discharge her,” he added.

Stating that she will continue to be monitored, Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan, said, “We are constantly in touch with the parents of the baby and working towards fulfilling our promises to the family in terms of treatment and job opportunities.”

The woman was eight-month pregnant, when she diagnosed with anaemia and therefore, transfused blood as part of the treatment. However, the blood turned out to be HIV positive as a result of ‘negligence’ of the government hospital staff.

A FIR was filed against those responsible and the woman was promised support from the government.