Typhoon babies: 16 born at Guam hospital during Champi
By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Guam Memorial Hospital maintained uninterrupted operations through Typhoon Champi’s closest approach, with 16 babies having been delivered before and during the storm, the hospital said today.
Tihu Lujan, spokesperson for GMH, said 13 babies were born during Condition of Readiness 2 and three during COR 1.
The hospital also sheltered and cared for 13 expectant mothers, none of whom delivered during this period, GMH said in a press release.
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero declared COR 1 at 1 p.m. yesterday in anticipation of Champi, which passed 10 miles south of Guam this morning.
"Everybody's very concerned about the stability of the hospital," the governor said during her afternoon visit to GMH after Champi's passage. "No major issues, no major injuries, no waterfalls in the hospital."
GMH said three patients received typhoon-related care in the Emergency Department: one for a wind-related fall resulting in minor injuries, one for a medication refill due to pharmacy closures and one for high blood pressure while preparing for the storm. All three were discharged after treatment.
'They've done a really good job to stabilize the hospital. And so we continue to make sure that we provide quality health care for our island and our people. I just want to remind people that we are still in core one," the governor said.
GMH bore the brunt of previous typhoons, which caused major flooding, water leaks and patient displacements.
"We were adequately staffed thanks to advanced coordination between departments," Lujan said. "The hospital weathered very well this time compared to Bavi and Sinlaku."
GMH said roof and exterior weatherproofing helped strengthen the hospital’s storm readiness.
Only minor water leaks and power fluctuations were reported, with no loss of power or major facility or safety incidents.
Generator power was activated ahead of the storm’s closest approach to support continuous operations.
"Hospital is receiving patients. We are pretty busy right now. At the emergency department, there may be a wait, so we are going to ask the community for your patience," said Dr. Joleen Aguon, GMH administrator.
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