171 children admitted in govt hosp in UP's Prayagraj with viral fever, chronic diseases: Official

Prayagraj CMO doctor Nanak Saran said the hospital has 120 beds and the number of children requiring critical treatment is much higher, according to ANI.

"A few days back, when I did the inspection of the Children ward, there were 120 beds. We have received 171 patients. So, we have shifted 2-3 children in one bed. Cases of dengue are fewer here. Some chronic diseases like encephalitis and pneumonia where they need oxygen support are admitted here," Dr Saran was quoted as saying by ANI.

"The 200-bed ward is under construction. We are providing all possible treatment to children," he added.

As the floodwater is receding in flood-affected areas cases of chronic diseases and viral fever are being reported among children.

The hospital is treating 3 to 4 children in a single bed and some have been receiving treatment on mattresses laid on the floor, reported ANI.

According to the ANI report, parents of children admitted for treatment in the hospital complained of negligence and one of them said his child is being infected by the medicine given by the hospital.

A father whose child is under oxygen support said the administration is "completely careless and there are many children who need urgent treatment".