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Hospital Neglect Contributed to Baby's Death
30 Oct
Summary
- Baby Esta High died from meningitis at Leeds General Infirmary.
- Inquest found neglect contributed to her death, delaying treatment.
- Parents demand accountability and GMC investigation into care.
A five-month-old girl named Esta High tragically passed away from meningitis at Leeds General Infirmary in November 2023. Her death was contributed to by neglect from hospital staff, an inquest at Wakefield Coroner's Court concluded. The jury determined that different care would likely have saved or prolonged Esta's life.
Esta had been admitted with a high temperature and vomiting, later testing positive for Covid-19. However, jurors found that medical staff focused heavily on the Covid diagnosis, missing crucial opportunities to test for a bacterial infection and begin antibiotic treatment. Her parents' concerns were reportedly ignored until it was too late.
The inquest heard that by November 2, Esta could not be roused, and scans later revealed meningoencephalitis and Streptococcus pneumoniae. She was moved to intensive care, where she died on November 6. Her parents are now urging for changes in hospital protocols and for the General Medical Council to investigate the care Esta received.
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust admitted that opportunities were missed in diagnosing the infection and administering antibiotics. The Trust's chief medical officer expressed deep sorrow for failing Esta and stated commitment to improving patient safety, including strengthening services for deteriorating children and implementing Martha's Rule.
