Skopje, 1 April 2025 (MIA) – Out of the 193 injured in Kochani nightclub fire, 93 patients have recovered and been discharged for home care. Another 100 remain in hospitals in the country and abroad, while one of the four critically injured patients has shown signs of improvement, Health Minister Arben Taravari said Tuesday.

“We have good news. Of the 193 patients, only 100 are still being treated, and luckily, just three are in critical condition today. In Macedonia, 20 patients are being treated, five at the Clinical Centre, seven at the St. Naum Ohridski City General Hospital, five at the September 8 General Hospital, and three in private hospitals. Meanwhile, 80 patients are receiving treatment abroad, with two returning today – one from Poland and one from Belgium,” Taravari said.

He added that several more patients are expected to return to the country by the end of the week.

When asked by journalists, he stated that this week, only fully rehabilitated, lightly injured patients are expected to return. The return of those who were more severely injured in the fire will be discussed next week. For their rehabilitation, several options are being reviewed, such as repurposing the former COVID centre at the September 8 General Hospital. The Rehabilitation Centre in Kozle is also available to receive patients. He reiterated that some countries have offered to provide long-term rehabilitation for certain patients, with all costs covered by those states.

During his meeting with journalists, Minister Taravari took the opportunity to thank the media for their fair and accurate reporting on the tragic event in Kochani, which affected everyone, not only institutions but also individuals, as well as for their respect toward citizens, patients, and their families.

“Journalism is not just an ordinary profession, it is also a public service. Over the past two weeks, you have been true partners to the Ministry of Health, the Government, and society as a whole,” Taravari said.

Photo: MIA