The Kano State Hospitals Management Board (HMB) has confirmed the death of one of the quintuplets recently delivered at the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, while the remaining four babies continue to receive intensive medical care.
In a statement issued by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, the quintuplets were born prematurely and admitted into the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), where they are being managed for Preterm Very Low Birth Weight (PVLBW) and other associated complications.
The HMB explained that all five babies were immediately placed on intensive care support, including incubator care, intravenous fluids, and antibiotic therapy, which was later upgraded based on clinical indications.
Providing an update on their condition, the board disclosed that the first baby, a female weighing 1.3kg, died despite receiving a blood transfusion due to complications related to apnoea.
The second baby, a male weighing 1.3kg, is currently under close monitoring after also undergoing blood transfusion, while the third baby, a male weighing 1.2kg, is said to be stable under intensive care supervision.
The fourth baby, also a male weighing 1.2kg, received a blood transfusion and remains under specialised care, while the fifth baby, a female weighing 1.0kg, is being closely observed in the SCBU.
According to the board, all the babies experienced episodes of hypoglycaemia, which were promptly managed in line with established clinical protocols. Feeding has also been introduced gradually using breast milk substitutes, with the babies reportedly tolerating measured quantities.
The board further noted that all the neonates are undergoing phototherapy to manage neonatal jaundice, a condition commonly associated with premature births.
Under the leadership of Mansur Mudi Nagoda, the HMB stated that all necessary medical interventions were promptly initiated from the time of delivery through admission and ongoing care.
While acknowledging the sensitive nature of the case, the board emphasised that premature multiple births are medically complex and carry significant risks despite the best available care.
The management commended the dedication and professionalism of healthcare workers in the maternity and SCBU units of the hospital, noting that their swift response has been critical in the ongoing management of the surviving babies.
The board reaffirmed its commitment to quality healthcare delivery and called for public understanding, patience, and continued support for medical personnel.