Kolkata, Nov 7 (IANS): Crib deaths are again haunting West Bengal with at least 13 infants dying since Wednesday at the Malda Medical College and Hospital, an official said Friday.

Medical Superintendent and Vice Principal M.A. Rashid told IANS: "Since Wednesday, 13 babies have died. All of them were underweight and brought in very critical condition."

Rashid said the hospital, which frequently witnesses crib deaths, is well equipped to face any kind of exigencies but the deaths were happening mostly because the babies are often brought in critical condition.

He added: "The biggest problem is that most babies are brought here in critical condition or half dead. Currently, more than 250 babies are undergoing treatment... people need to timely bring in the child."

The hospital accounted for at least 20 crib deaths in October while casualties were also reported in June and July. In January, more than a dozen babies had died.