Glasgow hospital closes ward after elderly patient dies in infection outbreak

A HOSPITAL ward stopped admitting new patients today after one died and two others tested positive for a bacterial infection.

An 88-year-old with a serious underlying health condition died as a result of the Group A streptococcal infection at the Southern General in Glasgow.

The two others were said to be responding well to treatment and are being nursed in isolation.

Dr Pauline Wright, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde infection control doctor and chair of the Outbreak Control Team, said: "We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the patient who has sadly passed away.

"As soon as we became aware of these cases, the ward was closed and a range of additional infection control measures have been put in place to limit any spread of infection.

"Both patients affected are being nursed in isolation and have been put on a course of medication to treat the infection."

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infections are caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, a bacterium that is commonly found on the skin or in the nose and throat.

It can cause a mild sore throat to more serious invasive problems such as infection of the bloodstream.