A serious health investigation is underway following a cluster of Aspergillus infections affecting transplant patients at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA) in Sydney. Between October and December last year, six immunocompromised patients in the hospital’s transplant ward developed Aspergillus-related illnesses. Tragically, two of those patients later died.
Aspergillus is a common mould found in soil, plants, dust and damp environments. Under normal circumstances, most people inhale Aspergillus spores daily without becoming unwell. However, patients recovering from organ transplants are particularly vulnerable due to the strong immunosuppressive medications required to protect their new organs.
At the time these infections occurred, RPA was undergoing a $940 million redevelopment involving significant construction works. Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) has acknowledged that construction sites can be a potential source of airborne mould spores, although the exact cause of the cluster remains under investigation. While Aspergillus infections can occur in transplant units from time to time, clinicians noted that the unusually high number of cases in a short period triggered immediate concern.
In response, the transplant ward was closed, and patients were relocated while the hospital conducted deep cleaning, sealed off affected areas, upgraded air filtration systems, and carried out extensive air‑quality testing. Health authorities have since confirmed that no elevated Aspergillus levels were detected after remediation, and the ward reopened on 9 February.
Four of the six affected patients recovered. The two deaths are reported to have occurred on 5 and 19 November and are now the subject of a clinical review. One family has referred their concerns to the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission. NSW Health has expressed condolences and confirmed that a full review of the cluster is underway.
For immunocompromised patients, Aspergillus can cause serious and often non‑specific symptoms such as fever and lung abnormalities, making diagnosis difficult and time‑consuming. Experts note that because transplant patients often contend with multiple infections and complications, any additional exposure can overwhelm an already fragile immune system.
If you or your family member has been affected
As these investigations continue, families understandably have questions about what happened and whether more could have been done to protect vulnerable patients.
If you or a loved one has been affected by the Aspergillus infections at RPA, or you have concerns about complications following a transplant, our firm is available to help.
We can assist you in understanding your rights, obtaining medical records, and exploring whether medical negligence may have contributed to the harm suffered.
DISCLAIMER
This article reflects the current law at the time of publication. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The actual decisions in each case are summarised for general understanding. For specific legal guidance in relation to your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional.