The health board for Greater Glasgow and Clyde, previously denying any link between its water supply and infections, has now acknowledged that contaminated water could have contributed to the deaths of several cancer patients. This admission follows a series of investigations probing the circumstances surrounding the infections associated with patients treated at the regional facilities.

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The report indicates that medical staff identified bacterial pathogens commonly found in well‑maintained water systems; laboratory analyses confirmed elevated levels of these organisms in the building’s plumbing. The board’s prior statements consisted of assertions that its water supply met safety standards, yet subsequent testing prompted a review of the filtration and disinfection protocols in place at patient wards.

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In response, the health board has instituted a comprehensive audit of all water infrastructure across its campuses, engaged independent hygiene experts to design new monitoring schedules, and announced a temporary shutdown of affected units until remediation is complete. Further, it is coordinating with local public health authorities to ensure that all treatment sites comply with updated infection control guidelines and to avoid future patient harm.