A 50-year-old man has died at a private hospital in Vashi days after he was allegedly administered expired intravenous (IV) fluid at a Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) hospital, prompting the civic body to suspend three staff members.

The patient, who had been admitted to the NMMC Hospital in Vashi on August 31, was later shifted to a private hospital after his condition deteriorated. He died on Thursday while undergoing treatment.

Family alleges expired saline was administered

The deceased patient had reportedly been diagnosed with dengue and falciparum malaria after being admitted with fever, dizziness and weakness.

His son alleged that his father developed severe symptoms shortly after receiving another IV fluid. According to the family, the bottle was later found to have expired in July.

The family has alleged medical negligence and demanded action against those responsible.

Three hospital staff members suspended

Following the incident, the NMMC suspended two staff nurses and a pharmacist for alleged dereliction of duty. The civic authorities have also initiated an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the administration of the IV fluid.

The exact cause of the patient’s death has not yet been conclusively established. Officials have initiated the post-mortem process, while further action is expected to depend on the findings of the inquiry committee and medical reports.

Authorities examine how expired fluid was used

NMMC officials are expected to examine the stock records, batch details, expiry information and treatment records linked to the patient.

The civic body’s health committee has described the alleged administration of expired saline or medicines as a serious lapse if established and stressed the importance of checking medical supplies before they are administered to patients.

Meanwhile, activists have demanded an impartial investigation and strict action against anyone found responsible. They have also sought examination of hospital records and CCTV footage to establish how the alleged lapse occurred.

The case has raised fresh concerns over medicine storage, expiry checks and patient safety in public hospitals