A fire outbreak in the maternity unit of an Algerian hospital near the border with Tunisia on Tuesday September 23, claimed the lives of 8 newborns. 

The state broadcaster ENTV television and national radio reported that the fire broke out at approximately 4am at the hospital in the town of El Oued, 360 miles southwest of the capital, Algiers. 

While 11 newborns, 37 mothers and 28 employees were evacuated from the building, the emergency service said 3 babies died of burns and five of asphyxiation. 

“Unfortunately we regret the deaths of eight babies, some from burns and others from smoke inhalation” Captain Nassim Bernaoui, an emergency services spokesperson said. 

The country’s health Minister Mohamed Miraoui, told Ennahar television that an investigation will determine whether the anti-mosquito device was responsible. This is reportedly the second fire to rip through the maternity hospital in El Oued in 18 months. 

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