Rats invade AIIMS Bhopal wards, NICU areas:Rodents emerge from AC ducts, reaches infant care unit with 20 newborns admitted

The rising presence of rats at AIIMS Bhopal has sparked serious concern among patients and hospital staff. Rodents breeding inside the ducts of the centralized air-conditioning system have now spread to wards, corridors, and even the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), posing a major health risk. Rats found in AC ducts, spread across hospital The hospital uses a centralized AC system, where a large number of rats were found inside the ducts. Until recently, pest control efforts were limited to wards and lower areas, allowing the rodent population in the ducts to grow unchecked. Earlier this month, during AC maintenance, the engineering team обнаружed a significant infestation inside the ducts, prompting authorities to initiate pest control measures. Over 25 dead rats found in three days Following a three-day pest control drive, a new problem has emerged. Rats are now coming out of the ducts into hospital areas. In the last three days alone, sanitation staff have recovered more than 25 dead rats from various sensitive locations. This has increased the risk of infection and negatively impacted the hospital environment. NICU at risk with 20 newborns admitted At present, around 20 newborns are admitted in the NICU. Doctors have reported sightings of rats in this highly sensitive unit over the past few days. A doctor from the paediatrics department, speaking anonymously, said that rats are frequently seen moving inside the NICU and later found dead. This not only raises the risk of bites but also significantly increases the chances of infection among vulnerable newborns. “If any incident occurs, doctors and staff may be held responsible, similar to what happened earlier,” the doctor warned. Fear of repeat of Indore tragedy The concern is heightened due to a past incident at Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital in Indore, where two newborns died after being bitten by rats in the NICU in August–September 2025. The matter reached the High Court, which termed it a serious lapse, leading to the suspension of eight individuals, including a doctor. High risk of infection Experts warn that rats carry dangerous bacteria on their bodies, fur, and in their urine and droppings. These can cause severe infections. Newborns in NICUs are already fragile, and even minor infections can prove fatal. Hospital management responds The AIIMS Bhopal administration stated that a viral video circulating online is from the pest control phase. During such operations, rats tend to come out of hiding due to the effect of chemicals and die shortly afterward. Officials said that the process is being carried out under expert supervision. Dead rodents are being removed promptly, and affected areas are being scientifically sanitized.