Rigshospitalet reports staphylococcal outbreak in neonatal ward

Thirty-two infants in the neonatal department at Rigshospitalet have tested positive for a specific type of MSSA staphylococcal bacteria since May. While six of the infants required antibiotic treatment, the remaining children were identified as carriers of the bacteria.

According to hospital officials, there have been no known complications resulting from the infection or the treatment. In response to the outbreak, Rigshospitalet has implemented stricter hygiene protocols for hands and forearms, increased cleaning measures, and offered screening to staff members.

Hospital management noted that such outbreaks can be difficult to avoid entirely in neonatal units due to the intensive physical contact required between healthcare staff, parents, and patients. This incident follows a previous outbreak involving MRSA bacteria that affected 68 critically ill infants.