RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – A fire partially destroyed a wing of Doutor Nestor Piva Zona Norte Municipal Hospital intended for treatment of Covid-19 patients, in Aracaju, Sergipe. According to the city hall, four people died.
The fire broke out at around 6:30 AM Friday, May 28, but was promptly controlled. The area where the fire occurred is isolated and the unaffected space will be equipped to assist patients.
“As a result of the need for total evacuation and isolation of the emergency unit, 35 inpatients were transferred to Emergency (Huse), State Police (HPM), Santa Isabel, Senhor dos Passos, Primavera, Hapvida, and Fernando Franco hospitals and beds of Jael Patrício CAPS (Psychosocial Care Centers). Other SUS (national health service) users receiving open-door care and employees who inhaled soot were also transferred by SAMU (Mobile Emergency Medical Service),” the city reported.
The city added that is currently working to find a new care unit that can replace the Nestor Piva beds and ensure health care to all patients.
As an emergency measure, the pediatric ward at Fernando Franco Hospital was “adapted for clinical care; however, pediatric care will be maintained at the unit.”
The city announced that it has structured an area for psychological assistance and information for patients’ families and hospital workers.