UPDATE 18:43
The Ministry of Health has temporarily suspended the operation of a private hospital in Nicosia after the bacterium Legionella pneumophila was detected at points in its water network. The decision follows a case of Legionnaires’ disease in a newborn baby delivered at the hospital, and all other newborns there have been transferred to other units.
Newborn in intensive care
The newborn is being treated in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Makarios Hospital. The Ministry of Health’s competent services are investigating the circumstances of the case.
Earlier on Friday, a floor of the private hospital where the case was identified had been closed on the Ministry’s instructions.
Preliminary test results
As part of the investigation, inspections were carried out and samples taken from the water network of the hospital where the baby was born. Preliminary results showed the presence of the bacterium at points in the network.
Suspension and transfer of newborns
After assessing the initial findings, the Ministry decided, as a precautionary measure, to temporarily suspend the hospital’s operation until additional tests are completed and their results assessed.
The newborns who were at the hospital have been moved to other healthcare facilities, and further environmental testing has been arranged.
Epidemiological surveillance stepped up
The Ministry of Health has also strengthened epidemiological surveillance, informing the relevant hospital units and paediatricians.
According to the official update, no other suspected or confirmed case of Legionnaires’ disease linked to the hospital has been identified so far.
How Legionnaires’ disease spreads
The Ministry of Health clarified that Legionnaires’ disease is not transmitted from person to person. It is spread mainly through inhaling fine water droplets containing the bacterium.
The Ministry said all necessary measures are being taken to protect public health and patient safety, with particular emphasis on protecting newborns.
Suspension to remain until tests are completed
The temporary suspension will remain in force until the additional tests are completed and their results have been assessed.
This is a developing story.
ORIGINAL STORY 17:13
A newborn baby has been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease at a private hospital in Nicosia, according to information from the Ministry of Health. A floor of the hospital has been closed as a precaution following the diagnosis.
Transfer to Makarios Hospital
The newborn was transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Makarios Hospital.
On the instructions of the Ministry of Health, the floor of the private hospital where the case was identified was closed.
This is a developing story.
Source: CNA
