Infant Dies After Nap at Pingtung Daycare; Autopsy Planned

A three-month-old baby has died after showing signs of cyanosis and cardiac arrest during a nap at a daycare center in Pingtung County. The infant had only been at the facility for three days, having been admitted on August 3.

The incident occurred on August 5, when the child reportedly developed cyanosis and lost consciousness during the afternoon nap. The baby was rushed to the hospital, where efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead on August 8, which was Father's Day.

Local authorities have launched an administrative investigation and initiated a child protection mechanism. The Social Affairs Department's initial findings suggest possible negligence by the childcare worker responsible for supervising the nap. The county government has consulted with the hospital and reported the case to prosecutors. Police have secured evidence, and the Social Affairs Department will continue to monitor the judicial investigation.

An autopsy is scheduled for the following day to determine the precise cause of the infant's death. The county government emphasized that if the investigation confirms violations of the "Act for the Protection of Children and Youths Rights and Interests," the childcare worker could face fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$600,000, and their name could be publicly disclosed. The daycare center itself may also be fined up to NT$600,000 and ordered to rectify the situation, with potential suspension of operations for severe or repeated violations.