Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) has confirmed it is investigating a cluster of infections from a fungus called Aspergillus at the hospital’s transplant unit between October and December.
SLHD acknowledged it is possible the fungal outbreak is linked to the $940 million redevelopment at the hospital. Construction on the project has been ongoing since 2023.
Aspergillus is a mould that can be found in soil, dust and damp environments like areas of high construction or demolition.
Serious symptoms of Aspergillus include breathlessness, coughing up blood, and respiratory failure.
Six patients have confirmed to have been infected with the fungus. Two died and four others fell seriously ill.
A spokesperson from SLHD said people inhale the aspergillus spores every day without becoming unwell, however it can have a more harmful impact on immunocompromised people.
This includes patients undergoing organ transplant procedures.
“SLHD extends its deepest condolences to the families of the patients who died at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and acknowledges the impact on all patients and families,” the spokesperson said.
“Even before the full extent of the cluster was known, multiple actions were undertaken as quickly as possible beginning with an investigation by infectious diseases clinicians.”
It added that “fungal infections are a known risk for patients who are significantly immunocompromised, including patients undergoing organ transplant procedures”.
The ward was closed while an investigation took place, with transplant patients relocated and potentially at-risk patients contacted.
“Additional patient safety measures were implemented, including a deep clean of the transplant ward, review of air intake points, upgrades to air filtration systems and comprehensive air quality testing,” the spokesperson added.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
Discussion about this post