Syringe Found in Water Dispenser at Guyana Health Centre, Staff Unharmed

On April 21, 2024, a syringe was discovered lodged in a water dispenser bottle in the staff lunchroom at the Campbellville Health Centre in Georgetown, Guyana. The incident was immediately reported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and the Chief Internal Security Officer, who then alerted the Guyana Police Force.

Contrary to initial reports circulating on social media, the GPHC confirmed that no staff members experienced any adverse health effects at the time the syringe was found. As a precautionary measure, all staff at the health centre were transported to the Accident and Emergency Department at GPHC for thorough medical screening.

Why this matters: The incident raises concerns about the security and safety measures in place at healthcare facilities in Guyana. It emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring and prompt response to potential threats to the well-being of healthcare workers and patients.

Samples taken from the syringe and the water dispenser were sent to an external laboratory for analysis. The test results revealed traces of alcohol in the samples. The exact nature and origin of the alcohol are yet to be determined as the investigation continues.

The GPHC emphasized that the health and well-being of their staff and patients are of paramount importance. They also urged the public to verify information before sharing it on social media to avoid the spread of inaccurate reports that could cause undue alarm.

"The GPHC wishes to assure the public that we are taking this matter very seriously," a spokesperson for the hospital stated. "We are working closely with the authorities to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted and appropriate measures are put in place to prevent such incidents in the future."

The Guyana Police Force and the internal security team of the GPHC have launched an investigation into the incident. The staff members who underwent precautionary screening at the hospital were discharged after assessments found no adverse health effects. They will remain under continued monitoring as a precaution. The Campbellville Health Centre continues to operate as normal, with heightened security measures in place.

Key Takeaways

• Syringe found in water dispenser at Campbellville Health Centre in Guyana.
• No staff experienced adverse health effects; all screened as precaution.
• Samples revealed traces of alcohol; origin yet to be determined.
• GPHC assures thorough investigation and measures to prevent future incidents.
• Campbellville Health Centre continues operations with heightened security.