Diwali Firecracker Injuries in Delhi: Children Among Those Most Affected at AIIMS and Safdarjung
Healthcare news Firecracker-related injuries continued to pose a serious health concern during Diwali celebrations in Delhi, with children and young adults accounting for a significant share of patients treated at major government hospitals. Data from AIIMS
Firecracker-related injuries continued to pose a serious health concern during Diwali celebrations in Delhi, with children and young adults accounting for a significant share of patients treated at major government hospitals. Data from AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital revealed dozens of burn cases, including patients requiring intensive care and emergency surgical procedures.
According to hospital figures reported on November 10, AIIMS recorded 42 Diwali-related injury cases until 11 am on November 9. Firecrackers were responsible for 37 cases, while two injuries were associated with potash. Among the patients, 11 suffered major burns and required hospital admission. Four of them were shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while 31 patients had minor injuries.
Children below 18 years represented 18 of the total cases at AIIMS. One eight-year-old child was reported to be in critical condition with burns affecting approximately 45% of the body. Adolescents aged 10 to 18 were particularly affected by injuries involving anaar firecrackers, while hand injuries were commonly reported among adults.
Safdarjung Hospital Reports 142 Burn Cases
Safdarjung Hospital reported 135 patients with minor burns through its outpatient department (OPD) on November 7 and 8. Of these, 129 injuries were linked to firecrackers and six were caused by diyas. Children below 12 years accounted for 35 cases.
The hospital also admitted seven patients with major burn injuries during the same period. Five cases were associated with firecrackers and two with diyas. One of the admitted patients was below 12 years of age.
Firecracker-Related Eye Injuries Also Raise Concern
Eye injuries were another major concern during the festive period. Nearly 110 patients visited the eye casualty department at AIIMS’ Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences on Diwali and during the early hours of the following day.
Of these, 72 patients had injuries that did not threaten eyesight and were managed without surgery. Eighteen patients sustained serious injuries, including corneal perforations and lacerations, requiring emergency surgical treatment. Another 20 patients were advised to undergo surgical procedures.
Hospital authorities reported that children and young adults formed the majority of patients with firecracker-related eye injuries.
The hospital figures highlight the significant health risks associated with firecracker use, particularly for children, and underline the importance of preventing avoidable injuries during festive celebrations.
By MedGate Bureau
