The Paediatric Department of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) has announced a temporary reduction in admissions into its Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as it begins a comprehensive fumigation and disinfection exercise at the Mother and Child Centre.
Epe Insights reports that the exercise is part of the hospital’s routine infection prevention and control measures aimed at maintaining a safe environment for newborns, children, healthcare workers, and visitors.
The hospital disclosed that the fumigation and disinfection exercise will commence on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
According to a public notice signed by Dr. O. D. Babatunde, Paediatrician and Head of Clinical Services, the first phase of the exercise will begin on the third floor of the Mother and Child Centre.
Hospital management explained that the fumigation is designed to strengthen infection prevention protocols and enhance the quality of healthcare services provided to patients.
As part of the exercise, admissions into the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) for newborns and older children will be significantly reduced during the affected period.
The temporary adjustment is intended to create a safe environment while fumigation and disinfection activities are carried out without disrupting essential infection control procedures.
According to the notice, work on the third floor is expected to last for one week.
After completing the first phase, the fumigation exercise will continue on the fourth floor of the Mother and Child Centre for an additional two days.
Hospital authorities assured patients and members of the public that the exercise forms part of established safety standards regularly implemented to improve healthcare delivery.
They noted that maintaining a clean and hygienic hospital environment remains essential for reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.
The management explained that infection prevention and environmental sanitation are critical components of quality medical care, particularly in specialised paediatric facilities.
Healthcare professionals also emphasised that routine fumigation helps eliminate harmful microorganisms and contributes to a safer environment for vulnerable patients.
Parents and caregivers have been advised to cooperate with hospital personnel throughout the exercise and comply with any temporary admission adjustments.
The hospital assured the public that emergency services and other essential medical care would continue in line with operational requirements.
Management further appealed for understanding from patients and families who may experience temporary inconveniences during the fumigation period.
The Federal Medical Centre reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of patient care, safety, and infection control across all its departments.
Medical experts have consistently highlighted the importance of regular environmental sanitation in preventing the spread of infectious diseases within healthcare facilities.
Routine fumigation, disinfection, and proper infection control practices remain vital in protecting patients, especially newborns and children receiving specialised medical care.
The hospital encouraged residents to continue seeking medical attention when necessary while following guidance provided by healthcare professionals throughout the exercise.
Upon completion of the fumigation programme, normal admission activities within the affected units are expected to resume, providing patients with an even safer and healthier healthcare environment.
The temporary reduction in admissions reflects the Federal Medical Centre’s proactive approach to patient safety, quality healthcare delivery, and continuous improvement of infection prevention measures.
