Belfast hospital declares outbreak of antibiotic-resistant infection

There has been an outbreak of an antibiotic-resistant infection at a major hospital in Northern Ireland . The Belfast Trust confirmed it is working with the Public Health Agency to manage the outbreak of a Carbapenemase-Producing Organism (CPO) at Royal Victoria Hospital . CPOs are highly resistant bacteria that produce enzymes capable of breaking down carbapenem antibiotics. The infection is spread from person-to-person through contact with hands, medical equipment or surfaces contaminated with the bacteria. The first case was identified at Royal Victoria Hospital on April 28. An outbreak was declared two days later on April 30. Patients who have already taken a lot of antibiotics are more at risk of having a CPO, Belfast Live reports. Enhanced cleaning measures and strict infection control protocols have been implemented at the hospital. The Trust is working with the Public Health Agency and engaging with families of affected patients. Patients found to be positive for CPO will be cared for in a single room either with an en-suite, toilet or a commode. Staff will be required to wear gloves and aprons or a gown when caring for CPO patients. A Belfast Trust spokesperson said: "Belfast Trust is managing an outbreak of a Carbapenemase-Producing Organism (CPO) at the Royal Victoria Hospital with support from the Public Health Agency on infection, prevention and control guidance. "A small number of patients within the Medical Specialities and Unscheduled Care Division have been identified as carrying a CPO. "The first case of CPO was identified on 28 April 2026, and the outbreak was formally declared on 30 April 2026. "Appropriate outbreak control measures, including enhanced cleaning of the ward, have been implemented in line with guidance from the Outbreak Control Group. "The Trust is engaging with the families of all affected patients. "There have been no reported fatalities or serious illness directly attributed to this specific CPO strain."