After routine air tests revealed the presence of Aspergillus, the hospital is postponing and diverting surgeries, hospital spokesperson Kathryn Mueller told KOMO News. The hospital has confirmed one surgical site infection due to the mold and is looking into other potential infections.
All 14 of Seattle Childrens’ operating rooms will be closed at some point this week as the hospital investigates the cause of the recurrent mold. The hospital is currently performing emergency surgeries in operating rooms with advanced in-room filtration.
Aspergillus is a common mold that most people breathe in every day without adverse effects. In rare cases, it can cause complications for surgical patients, especially those with weakened immune systems, according to the CDC.
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