Pseudomonas bacteria has again been detected at Prince George's Hospital Center in Cheverly, Md., though this detection occurred outside of the neonatal intensive care unit. On Aug. 9, the hospital shut down its NICU after three babies tested positive for the bacteria, according to a local NBC News affiliate.
After detecting the bacteria in a water pipe and transferring nine babies to nearby facilities, officials have been testing the hospital's water. Testing revealed the presence of the bacteria in a care unit outside of the NICU.
New disinfection and treatment procedures have been implemented at Prince George's and changes have been made to the facilities long-term water management plan. Hospital officials are planning to transfer high-risk pregnancies to other facilities. The three Pseudomonas-infected infants displayed no symptoms.
Pseudomonas infections can cause mild illnesses in otherwise healthy people, but in those with weakened immune systems the infection can be fatal.
To learn more about Pseudomonas bacteria, click here.
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