LAHORE: The Punjab government has banned the injection of Ceftriaxone in all hospitals throughout the province following the death of two people in Lahore Mayo hospital.
Earlier, a man and a woman had died as a result of severe reactions to the drug while in the Mayo Hospital Lahore. Moreover, 18 other patients have been affected by the injection which was given to them in the Chest Surgery Ward.
Punjab’s Secretary of Health, Azmat Mahmood, confirmed the deaths and has also announced the setting up of a probe committee to look into the matter.
The Ceftriaxone injection was to expire in May 2026, it was procured by DG Health Punjab rather than Mayo Hospital. Meanwhile, following the incident, Medical Superintendent Jinnah Hospital said that the hospital too had received a stock of the injection and would be returning it as a precaution.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken serious notice of the incident and directed the Specialized Healthcare Secretary to submit a comprehensive report as well as ensuring strict action against those responsible.
This incident has indicated the need for increased scrutiny and oversight on the procurement and administration of medications within hospitals.
