Family seek answers into newborn’s death
THE FAMILY of a six-week-old baby who died shortly after being vaccinated are demanding a full investigation into her death.
Roodepan High School educator, Alwyn Booysen, said there were a lot of unanswered questions because his granddaughter, Zylah Booysen, was in perfect health prior to being vaccinated on April 9 at the Roodepan clinic.
“The only minor issue was that she had a bit of a blocked nose when they checked her.
“On the way back home from the clinic, my daughter Courtneigh Booysen, 21, told me that Zylah was crying and was starting to turn blue in the face while she was struggling to breathe. We rushed her to the Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital.
“Zylah’s oxygen level dropped rapidly and she was placed on an oxygen nozzle and was treated in the intensive care unit. X-rays were also taken.”
He stated that he was at first hopeful that Zylah would recover.
“The family was devastated when she did not make it. We signed the release forms at the mortuary and the funeral undertaker collected her body.
“After two hours, they phoned us to bring back the body so that they could do an in depth autopsy.
“We were informed that the results of the post mortem would be available within about two weeks. Depending on the outcome, we will decide on the way forward. We do not blame anyone for her death but we would like closure.
“Perhaps by speaking out, it will help to save another life.”
He added that his daughter was very brave during the funeral on April 16 but added that she was extremely traumatised.
“I have never witnessed such a close bond between a mother and her child. They were inseparable. Although Zylah only lived for such a short time, she had an impact on so many lives. She was loved by everyone.
“The support of family, friends and colleagues has really assisted us through this difficult time.”