A 17-year old mother and her baby who died moments after birth will go for a DNA test after claims that the baby went missing at the Machakos Level 5 referral Hospital on Wednesday.
Speaking during a press conference at the facility, the county Health Minister Ancent Kituku said that the DNA test of the mother and her deceased baby is what will establish if it was hers.
“We have talked with Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua so that a DNA test can be conducted to the complainant and the deceased baby,” Mr. Kituku said.
Mr. Kituku affirmed that the form three student was admitted at the facility on Wednesday where she was scheduled for Cesarean section.
“The mother of the deceased was in labor at the time she came to our Hospital. After measurements we found that the child was tired and we took her to theatre where we conducted Cesarean section under spinal anesthesia,” he said.
He added that the deceased baby boy was delivered with a birth weight of 3.4 kilograms, but he had birth asphyxia.
Mr. Kituku said that moments after the deceased was taken to the new-born unit for oxygen resuscitation, he was pronounced dead. “Unfortunately the baby succumbed while going through treatment.”
Machakos County Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua in a statement said that the Hospital’s team was currently seated to review what caused the baby’s death and to make recommendations.
“We will ensure our people receive their rights and are taken care of well as we continue improving every day.” Dr. Mutua said.