Infection control measures have been put in place at Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry.
In a statement today, the Western Health and Social Services Trust says a number of staff members and patients are being tested and treated for the bacterial infection Streptococcus Group A at the hospital.
The symptoms are sore throats and minor skin conditions, with the trust stressing that this is a bacterium that is prevalent in the local community and in most cases can be effectively treated by a course of antibiotics.
The infection is currently isolated to two ward areas and as a precautionary measure all elective surgery in one ward was put on hold for an initial 48 hours. Infection prevention control measures, including cleaning in both areas have also been enhanced.
The statement in full –
A spokesperson for the Western Trust, said: “Commonly the Streptococcus Group A symptoms are sore throats and minor skin conditions. It is a bacterium that is prevalent in the local community and in most cases can be effectively treated by a course of antibiotics. The Trust has robust infection prevention controls in place and anyone who presents with symptoms will be tested and will commence appropriate treatment.”
The spokesperson added: “The bacterial infection is currently isolated to two ward areas and as a precautionary measure all elective (non-emergency) surgery in one ward was put on hold for an initial 48 hours. Infection prevention control measures, including cleaning in both areas have also been enhanced.”
“The Western Trust would appeal for the public to cooperate with standard infection control measures. Visitors to the hospital should adhere to the visiting policy, only two visitors per patient at any one time, wash their hands thoroughly before and after visiting. Anyone feeling unwell or suffering a sore throat should avoid visiting the hospital.”
