KINGSTON, Jamaica — The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) has confirmed an “increase” in the number of newborn deaths at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) but says the spike is due to prematurity and not because of an infection outbreak.

According to the authority, most of the babies who have passed away at the hospital since June were premature, with significant factors that could have predisposed them to serious illness.

“There has been an increase in the number of admissions to the Special Care Nursery in June compared to previous months and compared to last year. With this increase, there has also been an increase in the number of critically ill babies. There has been a high number of premature babies and babies with low birth weight that adds to the vulnerability of the babies,” SERHA said in a statement following a high-level meeting on Thursday.

SERHA maintained, however, that an established surge plan had been activated, and all steps were taken to appropriately care for the patients.

The update comes amid reports that 24 babies have died at the medical facility since June 2025, which has since sparked public outrage.

READ: Health authorities meet over 24 reported deaths of babies at Victoria Jubilee Hospital

The authority said a public health epidemiological investigation will continue, led by the regional health authority, in collaboration with the Kingston and St Andrew Health Department and the team at the VJH. Additional support is being provided by the Ministry of Health & Wellness.

It added that it has put several measures in place to decrease the likelihood of infections, including increased spacing among the babies and enhanced infection prevention and control measures.

“The priority remains to ensure a thorough, transparent and evidence-based review of all factors. The region has also put in place measures such as redeployment of staff and enhanced supplies and equipment monitoring, to ensure that the capacity to manage the babies is optimised,” it said.

SERHA also extended its sincerest condolences to the families who had experienced the loss of a newborn during the period.

“We understand the pain that such a loss brings. The findings of the investigation will guide any required interventions, and a public update will be provided once the process is complete. SERHA remains committed to ensuring the highest standards of care and safety for all patients across our facilities,” it said.