A CANCER ward at Crosshouse Hospital is set to close after a number of patients there became infected with mould.

Cases of aspergillosis were discovered earlier this year, with the condition caused by breathing in mould found in dust, damp buildings, air conditioning systems and bedding.

NHS Ayrshire and Arran has confirmed that the cause of the mould is still being investigated, and that it has not been decided where patients will be relocated to once the ward closes.

Nurse director Jennifer Wilson said: "NHS Ayrshire and Arran identified a very small number of patients with aspergillosis within a ward in University Hospital Crosshouse earlier this year.

"We notified Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection Scotland (ARHAI) of the incident in line with the national reporting requirements and are working closely with them.

"While we have taken measures to address the issue, in order to complete essential maintenance to the ward infrastructure, we are currently exploring alternative ward accommodation to allow these works to take place."

The health board is not releasing any further information on the situation, including on the number of patients impacted.