In a vivid illustration of Mexico's pandemic struggles, a maternity ward in Toluca has become a frontline defense for COVID-19-infected mothers and their newborns. With vaccine distribution lagging and January's daily death toll exceeding 1,000, medical staff are navigating unprecedented challenges to protect vulnerable families.
Mexico has recorded nearly 2 million COVID-19 cases to date, with healthcare workers emphasizing the increased risks for pregnant individuals. "These mothers face dual battles – bringing life into the world while fighting a virus that's claimed over 176,000 lives here," said Dr. Ana MartĂnez, a neonatologist at Toluca Central Hospital.
The crisis unfolds as President Andrés Manuel López Obrador returns to work after his own COVID-19 diagnosis, facing scrutiny over pandemic management strategies. While federal authorities emphasize vaccine acquisition efforts, only 2.4% of Mexico's population had received at least one dose as of late February, per Our World in Data figures.
Health experts warn the situation highlights global inequities in pandemic response, with developing nations facing disproportionate impacts despite universal health risks.
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Mexican maternity ward cares for infected mothers and babies
cgtn.com
