One of the five babies (quintuplets) born recently in Kano has died following health complications, hospital officials have confirmed.
The baby, a girl weighing 1.3kg, passed away on Sunday after receiving a blood transfusion.
Doctors said she suffered complications linked to breathing problems (apnoea).
The four remaining babies are still alive but remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive care.
Another baby, a boy weighing 1.3kg, is under close observation after also requiring a blood transfusion. A third baby, weighing 1.2kg, is reported to be stable. The fourth baby, also 1.2kg, is receiving specialised treatment, while the fifth baby, a girl weighing 1.0kg, remains under close observation in the hospital’s Special Care Baby Unit.
According to the Kano State Hospitals Management Board spokesperson, Samira Suleiman, the babies were born prematurely and were immediately admitted to intensive care.
She explained that the quintuplets are being treated for very low birth weight and are monitored for serious health risks, including infections, jaundice, and unstable body temperature and blood sugar levels.
All five babies were placed in incubators and administered fluids and antibiotics, with doctors adjusting treatment according to their individual conditions.
She added that the babies also experienced low blood sugar, which doctors quickly managed. They are being carefully fed with breast milk substitutes and are responding positively to feeding so far.
The babies are also undergoing light therapy (phototherapy) to treat jaundice, a common condition in premature infants.
Suleiman said the hospital has provided all necessary care from birth and commended the medical staff for their prompt response and dedication.
She noted: “Multiple premature births are very risky, even with good medical care,” and assured the public that the hospital remains committed to saving the remaining babies.
Meanwhile, it was reported that the babies’ mother died last Wednesday night due to severe bleeding following childbirth.
