A cluster of infections on the neonatal intensive care unit at University Hospital of Wales has prompted to closure of new admission to the unit Thursday, according to the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Acinetobacter spp./CDC
Acinetobacter spp./CDC

At least 12 babies in the NICU were infected with bacterial infections with Acinetobacter baumanii and an Enterobacter species.

There are 15 babies at the unit, which has 30 cots for intensive care, high dependency and special care.

Ruth Walker, the Director of Nursing at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, said: “We would like to reassure the public that all the babies are safe and those that have been unwell have been treated and their condition is improving.

“Arrangements are in place to care for any newborn babies that need this care at UHW with support from our partners at other health boards.

“Plans to quickly provide additional cot space in another part of maternity services have also been identified and are moving forward at pace.

“Caring for these special babies is incredibly challenging and I would like to thank all the staff involved in the Children and Women Clinical Board, colleagues across Cardiff and Vale and in other health boards for the passion and energy they are showing to keep these babies safe.”