The BBC has recently reported that there has been a listeria outbreak at eight NHS trusts across England, which has resulted in the death of five patients. One of the patients was being treated at a hospital in Leicester, which has not been named.

The affected products were supplied by The Good Food Chain, which provided food to 43 NHS trusts. Evidence suggests that all individuals consumed the affected products before they contracted the infection.  Dr Nick Phin, the deputy director of the National Infection Service at Public Health England (PHE), reported that they have taken steps to ensure ‘the product is no longer distributed, and therefore the public and the NHS patients are safe’.

Listeria is a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. A listeria infection can cause a small amount of discomfort but is more likely to seriously affect pregnant women, the elderly, and those with a weakened immune system.

Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, stated that he has been ‘incredibly concerned by this issue’ and strongly believes that ‘we need a radical new approach to the food that is served in our NHS’.  Matt Hancock advised that he has been instructed to conduct a root and branch review of hospital food.

Moosa-Duke Solicitors are specialists in clinical negligence. If you believe that you or a family member have received unsafe services from a GP or hospital, or been a victim of negligence, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0116 254 7456 to discuss your concerns.