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Saved February 14, 2026
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AZ Monica hospital in Belgium suffered a ransomware attack, leading to the cancellation of surgeries and the transfer of seven critical care patients to other facilities. The hospital shut down its IT systems to protect patient data, causing significant disruption to its services. Emergency care is operating at reduced capacity, and patients are advised to seek alternative medical options.
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A ransomware attack on the AZ Monica hospital in Belgium has disrupted critical care services, forcing the transfer of seven patients to other facilities. The hospital confirmed a significant IT system failure and took action by shutting down all servers across its campuses in Deurne and Antwerp. This move aimed to contain the attack but led to the cancellation of scheduled surgeries and reduced capacity in the Emergency Department.
Ambulances in Antwerp are no longer transporting patients to AZ Monica, adding pressure on nearby hospitals. Patients in need of urgent care are advised to seek alternatives, such as contacting their general practitioners or other emergency services. Chief executive Geert Smits confirmed the cyberattack, while chief physician Jeal-Paul Sion noted that many medical services, including chemotherapy and radiological exams, have been postponed. The University Hospital of Amsterdam is stepping in to care for patients needing urgent chemotherapy.
The hospital's proactive shutdown helped protect patient data from potential compromise, but it significantly hindered access to electronic medical records, disrupting consultations. The support from nearby hospitals has been crucial during this crisis, as they assist in managing the overflow of patients affected by the attack.
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