6 deaths inFahan home

SIX people have died in a Fahan nursing home since March 22, it was yesterday revealed.

It was reported to the Irish Health Service Executive (HSE) that six deaths occurred in the private nursing home near Buncrana, Co Donegal between March 22 and the April 2, 2012.

Five of the deaths occurred in a cluster over five days until Monday. It’s suspected the deaths may have been as a result of a respiratory type illness.

The HSE said it was fully investigating the matter and all appropriate treatment and control measures have been put in place. All residents in the nursing home are currently receiving either active or preventative treatment.

Dr Peter Wright, Director of Public Health, HSE North West said: “The Public Health Department in HSE North West is closely managing and monitoring the situation.

“Respiratory illness is a common cause of death in older people. The Public Health team will work closely with the Nursing Home management to determine the nature of the illness. Samples have been sent to the National Viral Reference Laboratory for determination.”