9 newborns die at Russian maternity hospital

Nine newborns have died at Maternity Hospital No. 1 in Novokuznetsk, Kemerovo Region, since the beginning of January, according to RIA Novosti.

Healthcare experts say the tragedy was “most likely” caused by a bacterial infection.

Four infants are currently in the intensive care unit. The hospital has been closed pending an investigation.

The hospital’s chief doctor has been dismissed.