On Saturday, a fire and explosion disrupted the intermediate care unit in the Neurology department of the Saturnino Lora Torres Provincial Hospital, the foremost healthcare facility in Santiago de Cuba. This incident necessitated the evacuation of 12 patients amidst tight-lipped institutional silence that couldn't prevent the spread of information.
Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada gathered accounts indicating the disturbance originated in the technical room housing the air conditioning system of the ward.
The initial signs of trouble included a strong smell akin to ammonia, followed by electrical sparks. In an attempt to manage the situation, hospital staff reportedly used a liquid extinguisher instead of a foam one, triggering a short circuit. This led to an explosion that blew off the room's door and shattered glass in the vicinity.
A nurse from the hospital confirmed the fire's source as an air conditioner's compressor: "The compressor from an air conditioner caught fire, but it didn't lead to serious outcomes. The patients were evacuated promptly."
The affected area was accommodating both intermediate and intensive care patients, with the latter dealing with water leaks from the floor above.
Out of the 12 patients evacuated, four were transported to other facilities using Medical Emergency Integrated System (SIUM) ambulances and patrol motorcycles, while eight were relocated to other critical wards within the same hospital. Several were urgently taken to the Juan Bruno Zayas Clinical Surgical Hospital.
The aftermath was characterized by chaos and enforced silence. As Mayeta Labrada reported, anonymous sources inside the hospital claimed, "They are not allowing patients or their families to leave other cubicles."
Numerous fire units arrived at the scene, accompanied by high-ranking officials from the Communist Party and Public Health authorities in the province.
The journalist emphasized that his report relies solely on testimonies from individuals and families inside the hospital, as there has been no official confirmation from authorities yet.
Common Questions About the Hospital Fire Incident
What caused the fire at Saturnino Lora Hospital?
The fire was caused by the compressor of an air conditioner located in the intermediate care unit's technical room.
How were the patients evacuated from the hospital?
Patients were evacuated using SIUM ambulances and patrol motorcycles, with some being relocated to other critical wards within the hospital and others transferred to the Juan Bruno Zayas Clinical Surgical Hospital.
Has there been an official statement from the authorities?
As of now, there has been no official confirmation or statement from the authorities regarding the incident.