Xuzhou denies requesting COVID test before treating baby

Xuzhou of East China's Jiangsu province denied on Thursday that two of its hospitals had required a negative coronavirus test result before removing pumpkin seeds from a choking baby's throat.

The 17-month-old boy died after seeds got stuck in his throat on Saturday. A video claiming the baby had been denied prompt medical care went viral online and angered many.

An investigation team formed jointly by Xuzhou's health, discipline and public security departments said that both Suining County People's Hospital and Xuzhou New Health Hospital treated the baby without asking for a coronavirus test report.

However, it said the Suining hospital failed to make a timely diagnosis and did not explain the baby's condition well to relatives. Citing limited capacity, it suggested they go to another hospital, the team said.

The doctor who first treated the boy had his license suspended. A warning was given to Suining County People's Hospital. The head of Suining's health commission also received a warning, while the hospital's head was removed.