The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust have confirmed they are working with the Public Health Agency to manage a CPO outbreak – a highly antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection
A hospital in Northern Ireland is dealing with an outbreak of an antibiotic-resistant infection. The Belfast Trust has confirmed that it is working alongside the Public Health Agency to manage an outbreak of a Carbapenemase-Producing Organism (CPO) at the Royal Victoria Hospital.
CPOs are highly resistant bacteria that can break down carbapenem antibiotics using enzymes. The infection is transmitted from person-to-person through contact with contaminated hands, medical equipment, or surfaces.
The first case was identified at the Royal Victoria Hospital on 28 April, and an outbreak was declared two days later, reports Belfast Live.
A spokesperson for the Belfast Trust stated: “Belfast Trust is managing an outbreak of a Carbapenemase-Producing Organism (CPO) at the Royal Victoria Hospital with support from the Public Health Agency on infection, prevention and control guidance.
“A small number of patients within the Medical Specialities and Unscheduled Care Division have been identified as carrying a CPO.
“The first case of CPO was identified on 28 April 2026, and the outbreak was formally declared on 30 April 2026.
“Appropriate outbreak control measures, including enhanced cleaning of the ward, have been implemented in line with guidance from the Outbreak Control Group.
” The Trust is engaging with the families of all affected patients.
“There have been no reported fatalities or serious illness directly attributed to this specific CPO strain.”
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