(JTA)—A team of Israeli doctors went to Romania to help treat premature babies who were injured in a fire in an intensive care unit.
The 10 doctors arrived Wednesday to help treat seven premature babies in critical condition. Four other babies died in Monday’s blaze at the Giulesti Maternity Hospital in Bucharest.
Doctors at the Grigore Alexandrescu Children’s Hospital, where the infants are being treated, said they weigh between 2.2 and 5.5 pounds, and as much as 80 percent of their bodies and respiratory tracts were burned.
The cause of the fire is unknown, but an investigation is underway. Unconfirmed reports say a malfunctioning air conditioner may have caused it.
Health Minister Attila Cseke called for the managers of the maternity hospital to be fired after some called for his resignation. A witness said no staff were in the intensive care unit at the time of the fire.
Dozens of people left flowers, toys and candles outside the hospital where the fire occurred.
The fire caused outrage in Romania, according to the Jerusalem Post, where health care staff and funding are in short supply.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
