Child burn cases surge at Bustamante Hospital; 110 cases recorded in 2026

November 12, 2026

The Bustamante Hospital for Children (BHC) has raised concern about burn injuries, citing a sharp increase in cases so far this year.

The hospital’s specialist Paediatric Burn Care Unit recorded 110 cases up to October.

This is 23 more than the 87 recorded for the corresponding period in 2025.

The increase has prompted an urgent appeal to parents and caregivers to enhance safety measures at home to prevent children from suffering potentially life-altering injuries.

Senior Medical Officer at BHC, Dr. Michelle-Ann Richards-Dawson, is warning parents against underestimating how quickly a child can suffer a serious injury.

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Dr. Richards-Dawson says the hospital is particularly concerned about preventable injuries inside the home, where seemingly harmless routines can quickly become dangerous.

She said parents and caregivers should incorporate appropriate safety measures into their daily routines.

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Dr. Richards-Dawson stresses that the actions taken immediately after a burn can make a significant difference in the child’s treatment and recovery.

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