2 Chicago patients die of bacteria infections

Roseland Community Hospital officials say two patients in intensive care died after becoming infected with a common, drug-resistant bacterial infection.

Director of External Affairs Sharon Thurman on Monday confirmed the deaths, but says it's not clear if the infections contributed to them. She didn't release information about the patients who died.

Officials learned Feb. 23 that four patients were infected with acinetobacter. It's common in soil, sand and water and poses little risk to healthy people. But ill patients can be sickened by it.

Thurman says an investigation is under way into the outbreak and how to prevent future infections.

Chicago Department of Public Health spokesman Tim Hadac says the agency is working with hospital staff to control and prevent further spread of the bacteria.