TWO patients on a hospital ward closed because of an outbreak of Clostridium difficile have died.

McCullock ward at Gillingham's Medway Maritime Hospital was shut down after four patients contracted the potentially fatal bug.

A spokesman at Gillingham's Medway Maritime Hospital said full outbreak control measures had been put into action. The ward was being deep cleaned and was expected to reopened.

The spokesman added: “The situation is being closely monitored. Visitors, staff and patients are reminded of the importance of observing good hand hygiene at the hospital, in the community and at home.”

Clostridium difficile is an infection which can cause diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting.

The Trust has confirmed C.Diff was not a factor in the death of one of the patients. The cause of death of the second patient will be established once an autopsy has been carried out.