A cleaning company was 'told off' after a potentially deadly superbug was found at the city's hospital, says the head of a watchdog.

The enzyme Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC), was found in two wards at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

The bug has been described as almost untreatable and can potentially kill a frail patient if it enters their bloodstream.

It was found at the hospital in June, although there is still a risk of infection at the site, according to the BBC.

Some 24 patients were reportedly affected by the antibiotic-resistant bug.

Peter Pinfield, chairman of Healthwatch Worcestershire, said: “It’s worrying that the infection risk hasn’t improved.

“The bug can lead to further complications to your hospital visit and can potentially even result in death.

“I understand the cleaning company has had a telling off. It’s important it’s been identified.

“There was a problem with cleanliness, the trust has done something about that.

“There have been robust talks with the agency that has the cleaning contract.

“We have been aware that there’s a problem and we’ve been assured an action has been taken but I haven’t seen the details of the report.”

Vicky Morris, chief nursing officer and director of infection prevention and control for the trust, said: “The presence of Carpapenemase-producing Enterobactariaceae [which carries KPC] is becoming more common amongst the general population, and, like many hospitals, we have increased our focus in this challenging area, reviewing our processes and adherence to best practice.

“Following routine screening a small number of patients on Laurel 3 and the trauma and orthopaedics ward at Worcestershire Royal Hospital were found to be carrying Carpapenemase-producing Enterobactariaceae.

“To ensure the safety of our patients and in line with our stringent infection prevention and control procedures, the wards were closed until all risk of infection had passed. Both wards are now open.”

Ms Morris added that patients who may have been exposed to the bug have been contacted and will be screened if they go back to one of the trust’s hospitals.

She said the patients have also been told that if they visit other hospitals they should inform staff so they can undergo checks. The trust is reportedly improving its cleaning practices.

Symptoms of the superbug include fever, coughing up bloody mucus, chills and shortness of breath.

Those that want to be screened for the bug can contact their GP or a member of the infection prevention and control team on 01905 733092.