A total of 40 babies were safely delivered at Vila Central Hospital (VCH) during the Easter holiday period, from Good Friday, April 18, to Easter Monday, April 21 — despite the hospital’s delivery room only having four delivery beds.

Midwife in charge of the Maternity Ward at VCH, Mrs. Annie Serel, confirmed the number and said that 39 mothers gave birth naturally, while only one required a caesarean operation.

“Out of the 40 babies, 39 were normal deliveries and only one required a C-section. That’s a big number for just one week, especially with such a small space and only four delivery beds,” Mrs. Serel said.

She added that despite the limited space, nurses and doctors worked closely with mothers to ensure the safety of both mothers and babies.

“Easter is a time for reflection and family, and we’re happy that all these babies were safely delivered during this special time. It means a lot for their families,” she said.

The mothers who delivered during the week came from different parts of Efate.

Mrs. Serel said the maternity unit has seen an increase in the number of births and staff are working hard to maintain quality services despite ongoing challenges.

She also thanked the nurses and health workers who worked through the long weekend and public holidays to care for the mothers and their newborns.