The Opposition People’s National Party has rejected an explanation offered by the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) regarding an increase in neonatal deaths at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) in Kingston.

Reports emerged yesterday that at least 24 newborns have died at the medical facility since June 1.

The matter has resulted in concern and outrage from members of the public.

In a response last evening, SERHA acknowledged the public concern and said it has commenced an investigation.

It also noted that preliminary data indicated that the majority of the affected babies were born prematurely, with significant factors that could have predisposed them to serious illness.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor McKenzie, who also weighed in on the matter, stressed that the newborns’ deaths are not attributed to an infectious outbreak at the hospital.

However, Spokesperson on Health, Dr. Alfred Dawes, has taken issue with SERHA’s explanation, arguing that prematurity is a medical condition and not a cause of death.

Dr. Dawes said the situation reflects a deeper systemic failure in the care of newborns.

Noting that Jamaicans deserve transparency and accountability, Dr. Dawes said his Government counterpart, Dr. Christopher Tufton, must release VJH’s full mortality data from 2020 to present.