Hospital Admits to Gathering in Neonatal ICU Before Infant's Death

Ang Thong Hospital has acknowledged that a meal gathering did take place in the neonatal intensive care unit following complaints from parents whose five-day-old newborn died after an overnight celebration. The hospital has launched a fact-finding investigation. The case involves a complaint from parents and Paveena Hongsukul, chairwoman of the Paveena Hongsukul Foundation for Children and Women, after their newborn died mysteriously just five days after birth. Staff had organized a meal gathering in the sterile neonatal ICU on the fifth floor of the hospital in Ang Thong Province, and the following day the infant died from a bloodstream infection, despite doctors initially assuring the parents the child was safe.

On July 24, 2026, Ang Thong Hospital issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the family of the deceased infant. The hospital acknowledged receiving complaints and concerns from relatives regarding the infant's death and the activities held within the neonatal ICU. Preliminary investigation confirmed that staff did organize a communal meal in an area adjacent to the patient care zone, separated only by a transparent plastic curtain. The hospital acknowledged that organizing meals in an area near patient care facilities is inappropriate and requires review of staff conduct policies.

In response, the hospital has immediately established a fact-finding committee, is reviewing treatment processes against standards, and is examining infection control procedures. The hospital has engaged relevant experts to evaluate the facts and has sent a team to express condolences and listen to the family's concerns. The hospital pledged to conduct a thorough investigation, review safety and infection control measures to ensure public confidence, and provide updates as the investigation progresses.