41st Victim Dies After Hospital Infection Linked to Crans-Montana Fire

A 41st victim of the Crans-Montana New Year's Eve fire has died after contracting a hospital-acquired infection. The case highlights the ongoing risks of infections spread through simple contact, such as contaminated hands. Authorities stress that stricter hygiene measures could save lives.

Between 2019 and 2024, Switzerland recorded over 200,000 hospital infections, resulting in 9,475 deaths. Nearly half of these cases could have been prevented with better infection control, according to the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH).

The five most populous cantons—Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Vaud, and St. Gallen—accounted for 42% of all reported hospital infections in the last five years. In 2024 alone, Bern reported 5,699 infections and 276 deaths, while Zurich saw 6,647 infections and 292 fatalities.

Switzerland's infection rate stands at around six percent of hospitalised patients, placing it mid-range compared to other European countries. The Federal Council has made reducing these numbers a key priority, pushing for stricter hygiene protocols and targeted prevention efforts.

The latest death linked to the Crans-Montana fire underscores the real-world impact of hospital infections. With thousands of preventable cases each year, health officials continue to push for better training, monitoring, and compliance with hygiene standards. The goal remains clear: cutting infection rates to save lives.