Babies contract hospital superbug

Three babies in Letterkenny General Hospital in County Donegal have tested positive for the superbug MRSA.

A hospital spokesperson said measures had been taken to control the outbreak, including specialist cleaning of areas within the maternity unit.

A screening programme has also been introduced for patients and staff.

The hospital's Consultant Microbiologist, Dr Michael Mulherin, said staff had followed best practice guidelines on dealing with MRSA.

"The hospital has contacted the families and the GPs of the babies concerned and the infection control nurses and public health nurses are in contact with them and will provide any advice and information they need," he said.