Outpatient clinics due to take place in Paignton Health and Wellbeing Centre from today until Tuesday 4 September inclusive are cancelled, following the discovery of Legionella bacteria in some taps in the former Paignton Hospital building.
A spokeperson for Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust said today: “Although it is normal for Legionella bacteria to be present in older buildings and any risk to people in outpatient settings is minimal, we have decided as a precaution to cancel clinics at Paignton Health and Wellbeing Centre while we carry out further testing and remedial works. Our swift actions will prevent the possibility of infection; however, anyone who has a compromised immune system (see Notes) or is pregnant and develops a cough/fever above 38 degrees after a recent clinic attendance at Paignton Health and Wellbeing Centre should seek advice from their GP, as there is a urine test for Legionella, performed at Torbay hospital and Legionella can be treated with antibiotics,”
Dr Selina Hoque, Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We carry out regular testing of all our estate buildings, and are closing Paignton Health and Wellbeing Centre as a precautionary measure to minimise the risk to our staff and patients. We hope to re-open Paignton Health and Wellbeing Centre on Wednesday 5 September once we have checked that decontamination of the building has been completed.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the short notice cancellations, but protecting people’s health and safety is our first consideration. We will reschedule cancelled clinics as soon as possible, and in the meantime, anyone who has any queries about their appointment should contact the number given on their clinic letter.”
Public Health England has been informed.
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