THE trust running Redditch's Alexandra Hospital has been forced to write to 349 patients and 129 staff over suspected contact with someone diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB).

The BBC has reported this morning that 349 patients treated at Worcestershire Royal Hospital in recent months have been warned that they may have come into contact with the person, who is reportedly a healthcare employee.

Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust is also understood to have written to staff, who may have come into contact with the healthcare worker.

Last November the trust had to write to 141 patients and 28 members of staff who came into contact with another healthcare worker working at the Alex Hospital in Redditch, who was subsequently diagnosed with TB.

TB is a bacterial infection spread by coughs or sneezes. Although a serious condition, it can be cured with proper treatment.

Vicky Morris, chief nursing officer and director of infection prevention and control, said: “We have written to any patients who may have come into contact with someone who was subsequently diagnosed with TB at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

“Whilst TB is a serious disease, the risk of catching TB infection is small.

"However, it is routine practice to inform anyone who may have had contact with a case of TB which may have placed them at risk of infection. Their GPs have also been informed.

“As soon as we were made aware of the case, a full risk assessment was undertaken in partnership with Public Health England (West Midlands) to determine all patients and staff who have had contact which may have placed them at risk.

“Those identified have received information and advice about what to do in case of any concerns. This includes being able to call a dedicated helpline where advice can be sought from specialist TB nurses.”

Last November Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust wrote to 141 patients and 28 members of staff who came into contact with another healthcare worker working at the Alex Hospital in Redditch who was subsequently diagnosed with TB.