Five women who gave birth and two infants have been infected with a very aggressive and potentially fatal strain of streptococcus bacteria. They are all in isolation in Tel Hashomer Hospital.

The story began apparently about two weeks ago when one of the women was admitted with a high fever, listed in serious condition. When the bacteria were detected, it was believed to be a lone case but shortly thereafter, four other women were diagnosed with the same infection.

One of the new fathers describes the situation as an “indescribable trauma. I do not know what to do, to pray for my wife first or my new son. It is our first child”.

According to the Channel 10 news report, the hospital states it has taken all the correct steps to prevent the spread of the potentially fatal illness, and the hospital has also called in the Ministry of Health to investigate. Dr. Gavriel Weber, on staff at the hospital, explains that health officials are involved and some of the employees of the delivery room have been temporarily suspended, hinting the proper procedure may not have been followed, permitting the spread of infection.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)