Derbyshire man named as victim of deadly listeria outbreak at UK hospitals
Nationally, five people have died from the outbreak, which has been linked to pre-packaged sandwiches and salads eaten by hospital patients.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock confirmed on Tuesday that eight hospitals in seven NHS Trusts had reported cases, including one confirmed fatal case of listeria at University Hospitals Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust.
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Hide AdAnd the man who died in Derbyshire has now been named as Ian Hitchcock.
In a statement issued by his family, it was confirmed that Mr Hitchcock, 52, had been diagnosed with liver cancer on May 7. He was admitted to the Royal Derby Hospital for treatment on May 15 but was subsequently diagnosed with listeria and was transferred to the Nottingham City Hospital, where he died on June 8.
An inquest into his death is due to open at Derby Coroner's Court tomorrow (Friday).
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Hide AdMr Hitchcock, from Matlock, is believed to have operated a family haulage company with his brother, and was the father of 19-year-old twin boys.
His brother Alan, 54, told the Times: “When he went into hospital, I thought he would soon be back at work. I didn’t think he would die because of the food.”