Health Update: Birth tub infected

A NEW-BORN baby developed blood poisoning after his mother gave birth in water, doctors at North Middlesex Hospital, London, report in the British Medical Journal. The boy, who recovered after treatment with antibiotics, was found to be infected with a virulent strain of bacteria that had contaminated the birthing tub, hoses and taps. The doctors called for regular microbiological surveillance of birthing tub systems, together with strict infection control policies.