Ang Thong Hospital expressed deep regret over the death of a 5-day-old infant. The hospital confirmed that staff ate meals inside the ICU near the treatment area, separated by plastic curtains. A fact-finding committee has already been appointed.
The parents of the infant sought help from the Puveen Foundation, alleging that a state hospital in Ang Thong province held a banquet with five tables inside the children's ICU. Approximately five newborns, including the complainants' baby who was only five days old with high pulmonary pressure and had been declared stable by doctors, were in the room. The hospital reportedly held the banquet in the sterile infant ICU, where food service staff were seen not wearing face masks. The day after, the infant passed away, prompting the parents to question the cause and seek assistance from the Puveen Foundation.
On 24 Jul 2026 GMT+7, Dr. Parichat Tirawat, director of Ang Thong Hospital, along with hospital staff, recorded a video statement addressing the incident. She expressed the hospital's deepest condolences to the infant's family.
The hospital acknowledged receiving complaints and concerns from relatives regarding the newborn's death and the event held inside the neonatal intensive care unit. Preliminary investigations found that hospital staff did share lunch together in an area adjacent to the patient care zone, separated only by a transparent plastic curtain.
However, holding meals in a space so close to patient care areas is “inappropriate” and the hospital must review staff activities and protocols.
In response, the hospital took immediate action: it appointed a committee to investigate the facts, reviewed treatment procedures for compliance with standards, examined infection control processes, consulted relevant experts to assess the situation, and dispatched a team to express condolences, listen to the grieving family's feedback, and provide ongoing communication and support.
The hospital confirmed it will conduct a thorough fact-finding inquiry and review safety and infection control measures to reassure patients and the public. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Dr. Tawichok Rojanaramkul, director of the Ang Thong Provincial Public Health Office, stated that the office has received initial information from Ang Thong Hospital and will proceed with the necessary steps to verify treatment standards and staff conduct.