The tragic death of a two-year-old boy at the "Eliseo Noel Caamaño" Provincial Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas has sparked outrage and sorrow on social media. The boy's mother has accused the hospital of medical negligence in the care provided to her son.
"Rest in peace, my love. You won't suffer anymore like you did when they let you die. Those who did this to you will suffer greatly, you'll see, life will make them pay. They have to suffer as you did," expressed Katheryn Meriño in a heartfelt message shared on her social media accounts.
The hospital released an official statement confirming the child's death on February 14, 2026. It detailed that the boy had been referred from the municipality of Jovellanos after experiencing several days of fever and respiratory symptoms.
According to hospital officials, the child underwent diagnostic tests and was administered broad-spectrum antibiotics, initially stabilizing his condition.
However, complications arose, necessitating his transfer to the Progressive Care Unit where he was placed on mechanical ventilation following neurological deterioration.
The hospital asserted that despite adhering strictly to medical protocols, the patient developed a generalized sepsis with irreversible multi-organ failure, ultimately succumbing to septic shock.
The hospital is currently awaiting autopsy results to determine the precise cause of death.
Nevertheless, the boy's mother claims there were discrepancies in the medical treatment and has criticized the healthcare staff, asserting that her son did not receive timely and appropriate care.
Her allegations have gained traction among social media users, who have echoed her calls for justice and clarification of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
This case reignites the ongoing debate about the state of Cuba's healthcare system, which is plagued by shortages of supplies, medication, and specialized personnel amid the country's severe economic crisis.
Medical Negligence and Healthcare System Challenges in Cuba
What were the circumstances leading to the child's death in Matanzas?
The two-year-old boy was brought to the hospital with fever and respiratory issues. Despite receiving diagnostic tests and antibiotics, his condition worsened, leading to sepsis and multi-organ failure.
What is the mother's accusation regarding the hospital's care?
The mother alleges that the hospital staff did not provide adequate and timely care, which she believes contributed to her son's death.
How has the community responded to the mother's claims?
Many social media users have expressed solidarity with the mother, sharing her allegations and demanding a thorough investigation into the incident.
What broader issues does this case highlight about Cuba's healthcare system?
The incident underscores ongoing issues within Cuba's healthcare system, including shortages of medical supplies and personnel, exacerbated by the country's economic difficulties.