Hospital takes precautions after superbug infections

Officials at a Charlottetown hospital say because of several new drug resistant bacterial infections, visitor access has been restricted, and hand-washing is mandatory.

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital has reported eight cases of vancomycin-resistant enterococci, or VRE, since May.

As well, five people have tested positive for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Both VRE and MRSA can be spread easily from one person to another.

Queen Elizabeth Hospital executive director Rob Philpott said staff are taking extra precautions, such as mandatory hand-washing, and restricting visitor access.

"Only one immediate family member can come visit patients, no children under the age of 12 are permitted, and any children above the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult," said Philpott.

Three patients are still in hospital with infections, but Philpott won't comment on their condition. He said the restrictions will continue for the next few days.