TWO patients are being treated for a rare and potentially fatal infection linked to pigeon droppings at Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. 

Some children and adult patients with compromised immune systems have been transferred to another area of the hospital away from the source, which the health board said was a “non public area,” and the droppings were removed.

However, a separate issue was then found in the sealant in some of the hospital’s shower room.

Investigations are continuing and air quality tests are being carried out. 

The infection is caused by inhaling spores, carried in the air, of the fungus Cryptococcus, which is found in pigeon droppings.

Most infections are mild and produce either no symptoms or a minor influenza- like illness.

However the disease can cause meningitis, high fever, blood abnormalities, pneumonia and even death.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said control measures were immediately put in place, including the installation of air filters and there has been no other cases. 

A spokesman said: “We have found a likely source in a non-public area away from wards and the droppings were removed.

“The small number of paediatric and adult patients who are vulnerable to this infection are receiving medication to prevent potential infection. “This has proved effective.

“As an additional precaution, we have also installed portable HEPA filter units in specific areas. These HEPA machines filter the air continuously to give us reassurance for this vulnerable group of patients.

“During the detailed investigation, a separate issue has arisen with the sealant in some of the shower rooms.

“Repairs are underway and our maintenance team are working to remedy this issue as quickly as possible with the minimum disruption.

“As a further precaution, a specific group of patients are being moved within the hospital due to their clinical diagnosis and ongoing treatment.”

Teresa Inkster, Lead Consultant for Infection Control, said: “Cryptococcus lives in the environment throughout the world. It rarely causes infection in humans.

“People can become infected with it after breathing in the microscopic fungi, although most people who are exposed to it never get sick.

“There have been no further cases since the control measures were put in place.

“In the meantime we are continuing to monitor the air quality and these results are being analysed.

“It remains our priority to ensure a safe environment for patients and staff.”