The superbug MRSA is believed to have played a role in the death of two babies in a neonatal intensive care unit, in Dublin's Rotunda Hospital.
The two babies passed due to complications of being born prematurely, however a report also indicates that the bug contributed the seriousness of their illnesses.
Another four infants on the unit were affected by MRSA.
Caring for the most vulnerable babies, the outbreak of the bug hit the hospital from February to April.
The hospital told the Medical Independent:
"Two babies died of complications of prematurity, but [the] MRSA infection would have contributed to the severity of illness.”
It marks the 11th infectious outbreak in the unit during a two year period, reports the Medical Independent.
The unit did receive a €2.1m make-over and they do have enhanced screen systems to detect babies who are affected by infectious diseases or bugs, and who need to be moved to isolation.
The face lift to the unit provides a better aesthetic and fire safety.
However, a spokesperson said it failed to give additional space, which is critical when containing and preventing the spread of any infection.
The risk was identified as the Health Service was dealt an additional setback this week.
The Cabinet signalled that their 10-year Sláintecare plan that funds a health reform will be slowed.
The bad news continues for the HSE as they are looking at a possible overspend of €600m-€700m for 2018, reports the Independent.ie
Which is likely to lead to another bail out from the government to make ends meet.
As a consequence, medical staff have highlighted that problems such as A&E overcrowding will continue to worsen, alleged the Independent.ie
