Two babies die after contracting a blood infection

Two premature babies died after contracting a blood infection in a Glasgow hospital.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have confirmed that they initially investigated three cases in the neonatal unit of the Princess Royal Maternity Hospital.

But two of the "extremely premature" babies have since died and the infection is "one of many contributing causes" in both deaths.

The third premature baby required treatment and his condition is stable.

The NHSGGC confirmed that an incident management team had been set up on 24 January following the detection of the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus.

Dr. Barbara Weinhardt, infection control doctor, said, "Our thoughts are with the families involved.

"The results confirmed today that the three cases of Staphylococcus aureus are linked and our investigations are continuing.

"Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that is found on the skin and in the nasal pbadages of about one in four people and that causes infection only when it enters the body."

Dr. Weinhardt said that in cases where people were vulnerable to infection, the infection could be serious.

She added: "We have taken a number of control measures in the unit, including a thorough cleaning, isolation nursing and a barrier, safety instructions for the purpose. all staff and infection control tips to all visitors. "

Related cases

Dr. Alan Mathers, head of the Department of Medicine, Women's and Children's Service, said the national guidelines state that an investigation must be initiated when two or more cases of the same type of bacteria are discovered.

In this case, a meeting of the incident management team was convened last Thursday.

Dr. Mathers added, "IMT has started researching the possible links between the three cases and has sent samples for testing purposes.

"While these results were expected, we spoke to affected families, as well as to the unit's parents and staff, to inform them of our investigations.

"The results obtained today confirmed the links between the three cases.

"Our infection control team continues to work closely with its clinical colleagues and national staff to manage the situation and take all necessary steps to maintain patient safety."

An incident management team is comprised of specialized clinicians, infection control physicians and nurses, occupational health clinicians, and field and facility staff.

The health commission is also awaiting the results of a separate investigation into the deaths of two patients at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital who contracted infection with pigeon droppings.