Health reports more than 6,100 pediatric emergency visits for injuries in 2026

Health Secretary Víctor Ramos, together with Dr. Nérian Ortiz, director of the Department of Pediatrics at the Medical Sciences Campus School of Medicine and president of the Puerto Rican Pediatric Society, called on parents and caregivers to strengthen safety measures to protect children during the summer season.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Department of Health urged stronger prevention measures during the summer after reporting 6,124 pediatric emergency room visits due to injuries so far in 2026.

Health Secretary Víctor Ramos Otero stressed that many of these emergencies can be prevented through proper supervision and basic safety practices.

“As a pediatrician, I know that many of the emergencies we treat during the summer can be avoided,” he said in written statements, joining the University Pediatric Hospital and the Puerto Rican Pediatric Society in promoting the campaign “A Safe Summer: Protect Our Children.”

According to the Syndromic Surveillance System, the cases involve minors between 0 and 19 years old. Most visits were related to head injuries (5,257), followed by chest injuries (315), neck injuries (289), burns (182), heat-related illnesses (71), and 10 unintentional drowning cases.

Ramos Otero warned that just a few seconds of distraction near water, prolonged heat exposure, or lack of protective gear can lead to severe consequences.

The Department of Health reiterated that drowning remains one of the leading causes of death from unintentional injuries among children, especially those between 1 and 4 years old.

Recommendations include assigning a designated adult to supervise water activities, ensuring constant hydration, seeking shade, dressing children in light clothing, and recognizing heatstroke symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, hot skin, and drowsiness.

Dr. Nérian Ortiz, from the Medical Sciences Campus and president of the Puerto Rican Pediatric Society, emphasized that most of these tragedies are preventable.

“By properly protecting our children, we can prevent drownings, falls, and trauma,” she said.

The Health Department also recommended the use of life jackets, helmets, sunscreen, insect repellent, proper child safety seats, and seat belts.

“Every prevented injury represents a protected life,” Ramos Otero concluded.