A HOSPITAL is calling for babies treated on its neo-natal ward to undergo “precautionary’’ testing for Tuberculosis.

Sunderland Royal Hospital says it has contacted 41 families to arrange appointments for their children.

But officials stress there is no need to worry as the chance of developing the disease is not high.

They say they are doing all they can to deal with the situation and that TB can be easily treated if it should be caught.

The call has gone out because it is thought the babies could have come into contact with someone who had the illness during their hospital stay between May 1 and August 7.

The TB tests are due to be done next week and it is thought that the results will be available within a matter of days.

Ian Martin, the medical director of the City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, said: “We have worked closely with Public Health England and clinical experts in Newcastle to ensure that we have reacted speedily and positively in alerting parents and reassuring those who may be worried.

“TB is very difficult to catch and the risk of any of the babies having developed TB is extremely low.

“TB, however, is treatable and can be easily cured with a course of antibiotics should that be necessary.

“We have set up dedicated clinics for the babies to be assessed and a helpline is available for any parents that may have concerns before that appointment takes place. The trust recognises and apologises for the anxiety and distress that this will have undoubtedly caused parents.”

The unit looked after 92 babies at the relevant time but only 41 need to be tested.

TB symptoms are harder to spot in babies than in adults, but the advice from Public Health England is that fever is the most important sign to look for.

If parents have any queries or concerns they can call a special helpline from 8am to 8pm daily on 07810 637 810.