Two babies dead after infection

19 January 2012 Last updated at 18:53 GMT  The trust is investigating the outbreak at the maternity hospital Two babies have died at the Royal's Maternity Neonatal Unit in Belfast after an outbreak of an infection called pseudomonas.

A spokesperson for the Belfast Trust said the deaths may be linked to this outbreak which is being investigated.

It said that admission to the unit is being restricted.

The bacteria pseudomonas can cause infections in the chest, blood, and urine of newborn babies.

The babies died in the last week to 10 days, but the possible link to the bacteria was only discovered recently.

There are currently 26 babies in the unit, which cares for ill or premature babies.

Review

They are all being tested for the infection and those clear of it will be treated in a different part of the hospital.

Any mothers who are expected to need the unit after the birth of their babies will possibly be sent to different hospitals.

In a statement, the trust said: "We are in the process of investigating the outbreak and taking all steps to identify the source.

"To help prevent the spread of this infection everyone including parents and guardians are being asked to be diligent in their hand hygiene when entering and leaving the unit.

"The situation will be kept under constant review."

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a germ or bacteria found in soil, water, plants and animals.

In newborn babies it is mainly found in the stool and an infection is usually treated with antibiotics.

Pseudomonas is spread by touching babies who have it or by sharing things that they have used. It is found on counter tops, taps, tile grout, and in sinks.