Two babies have died at the Royal Maternity Hospital in Belfast after an outbreak of an infection, Belfast Health Trust has said.
A hospital representative said the deaths of the babies may be linked to an outbreak of pseudomonas, a germ or bacteria found in soil, water, plants and animals.
The infection, which is spread by touching babies who have it or by sharing things that they have used, and which can be found on counter tops, taps, tile grout and in sinks, can be particularly harmful to infants who are already ill.
“We are in the process of investigating the outbreak and taking all steps to identify the source,” the hospital spokesperson said.
Health Minister Edwin Poots sent his sympathies to the babies’ families.
“This is a serious incident. The priority now is to identify the source of the infection and minimise the risk of spread to other extremely vulnerable babies in the unit,” he said.