Doctors Dismissed Mother's Fears as Baby Died

A mother has spoken of "unforgivable" mistakes made by doctors, alleging her five-month-old daughter's death could have been prevented. Lynsey Carr told an inquest that her concerns about her daughter, Esta High, were dismissed multiple times over a 15-hour period at Leeds General Infirmary.

Esta, described as a happy and healthy baby, became ill on October 31, 2023. Her parents brought her to the emergency department with a high temperature and vomiting; she later tested positive for Covid-19. Carr stated the family was placed in a side room, believing staff focused on isolation due to the Covid risk.

Despite Esta's temperature exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and persistent vomiting, her parents refused medical advice to take her home. Carr reported that her daughter developed a rash and experienced an arm tremor, which she feared was a seizure. She conveyed to the jury that staff were perceived as rude and dismissive of their escalating worries.

Carr believes Esta's symptoms indicated a high risk of sepsis and that timely, correct treatment could have prevented or limited brain damage. The inquest is examining the care provided to Esta High.