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SABAH’S health authorities have initiated an inquiry into the death of an 18-year-old teenager, Aidil @ Erjuand Christian, who succumbed to dengue on December 29 last year, allegedly linked to a lapse in diagnosis by a medical officer in Tuaran.
The investigation follows concerns raised by Tuaran MP Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau over the matter.
Sabah Health Director Datuk Dr Asits Sanna said the department is treating the case with utmost seriousness.
He affirmed that a thorough and transparent investigation is currently underway to enhance healthcare services in Sabah.
According to Asits, Christian sought treatment at Tuaran Hospital twice, on December 25 and 28, as revealed by the medical records.
“On the first visit, the teenager presented symptoms of epigastric pain and vomiting. Records indicate the absence of other symptoms such as fever, diarrhoea, chest pain, or shortness of breath. Vital signs remained stable, and the temperature was normal.“After receiving gastric treatment and an intravenous anti-vomiting jab,
Christian was discharged with painkillers and gastric medication, with instructions to return if symptoms worsened.
“However, he returned to Tuaran Hospital on December 28, experiencing nosebleeds, fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and loss of appetite. An Emergency Medical Specialist confirmed dengue during this second visit,” he said in a statement here.
Asits revealed that Christian was promptly referred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment but unfortunately succumbed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) the next day (December 29).
Tangau visited the teenager's home in Tamparuli and shared concerns raised by the family on social media. Christian’s family members also expressed great concern over the matter.
Tangau expressed frustration over attempts by certain quarters to politicise the issue, clarifying that his concerns about Tuaran Hospital's services were focused on the need for specialist doctors and advanced equipment to detect diseases effectively.
Tangau's social media post gained traction, prompting wider coverage by news outlets after it went viral on social media.
He said the priority for Tuaran Hospital was to evolve into a specialist facility with a cadre of specialist doctors catering to the community's needs.
Currently, Tuaran Hospital has four specialists: a general medical specialist, two paediatric specialists, and one emergency medical specialist. – The Vibes, January 3, 2024
