Mt Hope bacteria probe continues

THE INVESTIGATION into the circumstances which led to an increased incidence of the enterobacter bacteria at the neo-natal unit at Mt Hope Women’s Hospital is still ongoing. Newsday learnt that quality manager for the Health Ministry Valerie Rawlins visited the hospital this week and conducted interviews with staff. She also interviewed Medical Chief of Staff Dr Esau Joseph, who was quizzed three days ago, and the matron. Staff at the neonatal unit, and auxiliary staff (cleaners) are expected to be interviewed.

Health Minister Colm Imbert could not be reached for comment on the issue yesterday. Last Friday he announced that “by Monday afternoon we will know what happened and who is responsible.” The investigation will also seek to determine if the deaths of 15 babies in August was linked to unsanitary conditions at the hospital. Ten babies were relocated last Tuesday to allow for a thorough sanitsation exercise to be conducted at the neonatal unit and surrounding areas. The Labour and Delivery units were also cleaned.