The Belfast Trust is managing an outbreak of Carbapenemase-Producing Organism at the Royal Victoria Hospital. The first case appeared on April 28, 2026. Officials declared the outbreak two days later on April 30, 2026.

A small number of patients in the Medical Specialities and Unscheduled Care Division carry the bacteria. The Trust works with the Public Health Agency on infection prevention and control.

CPOs produce enzymes that break down carbapenem antibiotics. The bacteria spread person-to-person via hands, medical equipment, or contaminated surfaces.

Control measures include enhanced ward cleaning. These steps follow guidance from the Outbreak Control Group.

The Trust contacts families of affected patients. No fatalities or serious illnesses link directly to this CPO strain.