Five babies infected with rare bacteria at Flinders Medical Centre neonatal unit
ABCA rare bacteria has infected five babies at an Adelaide hospital's neonatal unit, with health authorities now investigating the source of the outbreak. Key points: The bacteria can cause meningitis, among other conditions The hospital is investigating the outbreak A basin has been identified as the source of contamination SA Health said one of the babies, at Flinders Medical Centre, is in a serious but stable condition after becoming infected with the bacteria serratia marcescens. "Once we became aware of the second baby displaying symptoms, we immediately launched a thorough investigation into the origins of the infection by testing the environment where the bacteria can grow, and for precaution, tested all 40 babies within the unit and all recent discharges," Dr Lawrence said. "We have exceptionally high levels of infection control within the unit and a very low rate of hospital-acquired infections, so given another three babies returned tests showing they are carrying the bacteria, we have taken immediate action.
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Baby at Women's and Children's Hospital tests positive for rare bacteria after Flinders outbreak
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