Deadly Bacterium Found at PG County Hospital After 2 Babies Die: Report

CHEVERLY, MD -- Two baby deaths at Prince George's County Hospital Center have led to the discovery of a potentially deadly bacterium in the neonatal intensive care unit, resulting in its shutdown and the transfer of patients to other hospitals, according to reports.

The Washington Post is reporting that it was the deaths of two babies that resulted in the discovery of the bacterium Pseudomonas, which can cause severe illness and death. The bacterium has been found in three babies since the investigation began, the report states. Patch.com has reached out to the hospital for comment.

Authorities reportedly found the bacterium in a pipe, and it resulted in the shutdown of the NICU in an effort to contain the bacterium, according to the report, which added that nine current patients in the unit were being transferred to other hospitals.

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission issued a statement claiming that it last tested a water sample at the nearest location to PGHC on Aug. 3, and the sample showed "the chlorine residual to be within the required regulations." WSSC says they have reached out to the Prince George's County Health Department to provide assistance.

Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker said in a statement that he was offering the "full support and resources of the Prince George's County Government" to assist in the situation.

"The precaution of moving the nine infants that were in the NICU to other hospitals while this situation is investigated and resolved is prudent," Baker said. "I am confident that the healthcare professionals who are handling this matter, which I understand is fairly common in hospitals, will ensure that the health and welfare of the hospital’s patients is not compromised."

The report didn't specify which type of Pseudomonas the bacterium was, but P. aeruginosa is known to flourish in hospital settings.

"Serious Pseudomonas infections usually occur in people in the hospital and/or with weakened immune systems," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says on its website. "Infections of the blood, pneumonia, and infections following surgery can lead to severe illness and death in these people.

"However, healthy people can also develop mild illnesses with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, especially after exposure to water," the CDC continues. "Ear infections, especially in children, and more generalized skin rashes may occur after exposure to inadequately chlorinated hot tubs or swimming pools. Eye infections have occasionally been reported in persons using extended-wear contact lenses."

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