We have some very sad news to share today, as it has been reported that a baby has died after contracting an infection while in a maternity unit.

 

The baby, who was premature and is reported to have had ‘existing complex medical problems’, passed away at Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, from Serratia marcescens infection.

 

Sources are claiming today that the bacteria has also been found in five other infants at the same maternity unit.

 

Serratia marcescens is caused by bacteria found in the respiratory and urinary tracts of adults and in the gastrointestinal system of children.

 

 

An NHS representative confirmed that an investigation into the increase in Serratia marascens colonisation cases is now taking place. Meanwhile, at the maternity unit in question, “appropriate infection control procedures are in place”.

 

Alan Mathers, Chief of Medicine for Women and Children’s services, released a statement this week in acknowledgement of the unnamed tot’s death.

 

“Our deepest sympathies are with the family of the baby who has sadly passed away. None of the five babies in the unit who are colonised are giving cause for concern as a result of the colonisation,” he said.

 

Mr Mathers went on to assure people that Serratia marascens can be naturally found in the gut, and its presence in the body is not harmful to healthy people.

26 Shares

Latest

Trending