Hospital told act to prevent superbug outbreak

The State’s health services watchdog told a hospital to take immediate steps to prevent another outbreak of the superbug Clostridium difficile (C diff).

The Heath Information and Quality Authority said it was not assured that Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe, Co Galway, was effectively managing the infection risk.

“Clostridium difficile infection can have serious outcomes for patients that may result in devastating illness or death, and increased hospital stay,” it said.