DURBAN - The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health confirms the tragic incident that occurred at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in Umlazi on the evening of 18 February 2025, resulting in the death of a 39-year-old patient.
The patient, who had been admitted (for the condition which we can not divulge because of the patient doctor privacy) to the hospital on Friday, 14 February 2025, was placed in isolation, due to his medical condition.
It is alleged that the patient ignited a cigarette lighter while in close proximity to an oxygen mask that he was wearing which was connected to the oxygen main line, that led to a fire which was contained in his single bed cubicle. The incident took place at approximately 19h00 during visiting hours.
Another patient in the neighboring single ward alerted the nursing staff, who immediately responded to the emergency. Upon arrival, the ward was filled with smoke, and the staff quickly retrieved fire extinguishers to contain the blaze.
The Department can also confirm that the facility has running water that fire detection and water sprinklers also kicked in and augmented in extinguishing the fire.
The matron on duty was also notified and assisted in managing the situation. Despite the swift response, the patient who is allerged to have caused the fire sustained severe burns and tragically succumbed to his injuries.
No other patients or staff members were injured in the incident. However, as a precautionary measure, all patients closer to the affected isolation ward were clinically examined for potential smoke inhalation.
Patients from wards C5 and C6 were relocated to medical wards, while those in isolation were provided with masks and isolated as necessary to ensure their safety.
The MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Nomagugu Simelane, has expressed her heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.
She has also urged calm and reassured families with relatives at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital that all patients are safe and that the situation is under control.
The incident has been reported to the South African Police Service who are currently on-site conducting an investigation. The matter will be investigated to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all patients and staff. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Source: KZN Department of Health
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