Two patients die after contracting pigeon infection

TWO patients have died after being treated for a fungal infection linked to pigeon droppings at a Glasgow hospital.

Health bosses confirmed that an elderly patient at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital died of “unrelated causes” after two cases of Cryptococcus were detected.

However, the circumstances surrounding a second death, believed to be of a child who was also infested, are still unknown and an investigation has been launched.

Control measures were immediately put in place at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital on Friday after two cases of the infestion were discovered.

A spokesman for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) said: “We can confirm an elderly patient has sadly died, but of an unrelated cause.

“A second patient has also sadly died and the factors contributing to the death are still being investigated.

“Our thoughts are with the families at this distressing time.

“Due to patient confidentiality we cannot share further details of the two cases.

“The organism is harmless to the vast majority of people and rarely causes disease in humans.”

The infection is caused by inhaling the fungus Cryptococcus, primarily found in soil and pigeon droppings.

NHSGGC said that a likely source was found in a non-public area away from wards and the droppings were removed.

The health board said that the small number of child and adult patients onsite who are vulnerable to this infection are receiving medication to prevent potential infection which has proved effective.

The infection is commonly associated with those with a compromised immune system and is extremely rare in healthy individuals.

Teresa Inkster, NHSGGC lead consultant for infection control, said: “Cryptococcus lives in the environment throughout the world.

“It rarely causes infection in humans.

“People can become infected with it after breathing in the microscopic fungi, although most people who are exposed to it never get sick from it.

“There have been no further cases since the control measures were put in place.

“In the meantime we are continuing to monitor the air quality and these results are being analysed.

“It remains our priority to ensure a safe environment for patients and staff.”

The health board has installed HEPA filters, and found a problem with sealant in some showers which is undergoing repair.

Some patients have also been moved.

Scottish Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary Monica Lennon said: “This is tragic news and our thoughts are with the families and friends of the two people who have died.”

She added: “Patients and the wider public need to be reassured as a matter of urgency that this unit is safe.”

“The Scottish Government and health board must ensure an appropriate investigation proceeds at pace.”