Maternity Hospital Closed After Deaths of Nine Newborns in Russia

The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a criminal case in the Kemerovo region concerning incidents of newborn deaths at a maternity hospital in Novokuznetsk, under charges of negligence and causing death through carelessness. The investigation was launched after nine newborns died during the New Year period at the medical facility.

The first reports of the incident came from the regional media outlet NGS42, citing its sources. The deaths of the newborns were confirmed by Andrey Tarasov, the Minister of Health of the Kemerovo region.

According to the regional health department, between December 1, 2025, and January 11, 2026, the maternity hospital had admitted 234 births. A total of 32 newborns received treatment in the hospital's department, 17 of whom were in extremely serious condition. All the infants were diagnosed with severe intrauterine infections.

Ilia Seredyuk, the governor of the Kemerovo region, announced that the chief physician of the hospital has been temporarily relieved of his duties. Due to exceeding the threshold of infection, the maternity hospital is now closed.

Apart from official sources, various media outlets report that multiple complaints have been lodged against the facilities in the past. According to interviewees, the issues raised include unsanitary conditions, though these claims have not yet been officially confirmed within the investigation's framework. The Russian Prosecutor's Office is reviewing the case.