Two more cases feared in C.diff outbreak

Published on Friday 11 June 2010 21:22

DOCTORS are awaiting test results on two possible new cases of the C. difficile bug, following an outbreak of the potentially lethal bacteria in a West Coast hospital.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran said that, in addition to two already confirmed cases, tests had been carried out on a further two people.

Dr Bob Masterton, executive medical director of the board, said: "We await test results to determine whether a third patient with Clostridium difficile has Type 27 infection.

"These results should be received early next week.

"Initial test results on a fourth patient, who is currently classed as a probable case, indicate that the patient does not have C.difficile infection, however, we are awaiting further test results to confirm this."

Dr Masterton said that the condition of all four patients was improving.

The two confirmed cases are being treated in isolation in a ward which is closed to new admissions and transfers.

Earlier this week, an expert group of clinical and infection control staff met to review all the cases and continue to monitor the situation with Health Protection Scotland.

The board's Infection Control team is working with ward staff to manage the situation.