Further death on Haematology ward as Minister launches investigation in Craigavon Area

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A fourth patient has died from Covid-19 at Craigavon Area.

by PA Media

A fourth patient who tested positive for Covid-19 after being treated on a haematology ward hit by a coronavirus outbreak has died, the Stormont Assembly has been told.

Last week, two patients treated on the haematology ward of Craigavon Area Hospital died at the hospital after testing positive for the virus.

A third patient, who had been discharged, also tested positive and died, although the virus was not the primary cause of death.

A total of three wards have been hit by Covid-19 outbreaks at Craigavon hospital.

Health Minister Robin Swann has now ordered a level three serious adverse incident investigation into the clusters.

The probe will be independently chaired.

Mr Swann stated: “I said on Friday that a thorough investigation is required and that patients and bereaved families are entitled to answers.

Health Minister Robin Swann

“I can now confirm that a Level Three Serious Adverse Incident review will be initiated. This will be independently chaired and I expect its findings to be made public.

“I also want to again express my deepest sympathies to the loved ones of those who have passed away. I am deeply sorry that families have been plunged into grief in such disturbing circumstances.”

The Minister said the Southern Trust’s immediate priorities are to care for affected patients and staff and prevent further spread of the virus.

“The Public Health Agency gave me an assurance at the meeting that all the actions that have been requested to reduce spread have been implemented by the Trust.

“I was also assured by the Southern Trust that support is available for families, patients and staff.”

The Minister concluded: “There are undoubtedly questions that will have to be answered by the Trust in relation to these outbreaks. There is also a lesson for us all to keep heeding – Covid-19 remains a lethal and highly infectious virus.”

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