Following testing, as part of a detailed programme of ongoing planned and proactive upgrading of the ventilation system in our haematology ward (ward 16) at University Hospital Monklands (UHM), we have identified traces of aspergillus.
The patients in this ward are vulnerable so we have taken the decision to move these patient out of ward 16, to allow us to complete the ongoing upgrading of the ventilation system in an empty ward, and move into our oncology outpatient ward (ward 15).
Outpatients from ward 15 will be relocated and attend our oncology outpatient unit at University Hospital Hairmyres (UHH) for a time period before relocating back to UHM for the remaining time of ward 16 being ready for our Inpatient service to return.
Unfortunately, there are some works we need to carry out on ward 15 before this move can take place and these will begin as soon as we have put in place the appropriate measure for the outpatients to attend UHH including any transport needs for individual patients.
In the meantime, we have taken a number of precautionary measures in ward 16 by introducing portable HEPA filters and prescribing anti-fungal medication (prophylactic) for those patients not already being prescribed anti-fungal medication, anti-fungal medication is often prescribing for patients whose immune system is compromised. None of the patients are showing any signs or symptoms of aspergillosis.
Lynn Mack, NHS Lanarkshire Cancer Services Manager, said: “As soon as aspergillus was identified we took active steps to carry out further testing and identify the necessary steps we needed to take to allow us provide the safest environment we can for some of our most vulnerable patients.
“NHS Lanarkshire follows the Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections (ARHAI) Scotland guidance and all standard infection prevention and control measures are in place to keep patients and staff safe.”
Aspergillus is a common mould, a type of fungus, that lives indoors and outdoors. Most people breathe in aspergillus spores every day without getting sick. However, people with weakened immune systems or lung diseases are at a higher risk of developing health problems due to aspergillus.
