A Heartbreaking Incident in Haifa

In a distressing turn of events, four infants were found to have contracted a bacterial infection in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa. Tragically, one of these newborns, who was born just last week, has passed away after the infection was discovered posthumously.

Current Status of Affected Infants

The three surviving infants are reported to be in stable condition and are undergoing antibiotic treatment. Medical staff are working diligently to manage the situation as they assess the health of all babies in the unit.

Precautionary Measures Implemented

In light of this outbreak and the existing patient load, Rambam Hospital has made the decision to temporarily suspend the admission of new premature infants to the NICU. This measure aims to safeguard the health of current patients.

Investigation Underway

A thorough investigation is underway to identify the source of the outbreak. Medical personnel, in conjunction with Rambam's infection prevention team, are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safety of all other patients. Importantly, hospital representatives have assured that the infection is contained within the NICU and poses no threat to infants or patients in other departments.

Transparency and Reporting

In compliance with health regulations, the incident has been reported to Israel’s national infection prevention unit and the Health Ministry. Rambam Hospital, known for operating one of the largest NICUs in the country, has emphasized its commitment to transparency with the parents of affected infants.

Broader Context of Hospital Infections

Following the outbreak, screenings were carried out, revealing that three additional infants in the unit are infected but stable, receiving preventive care. The specific bacteria responsible for the infections has yet to be identified. It’s worth noting that Rambam ranks second among major Israeli hospitals for hospital-acquired infections, according to the Health Ministry’s latest report.