New Taipei Nursing Home Faces Scrutiny Over Suspected Genital Wart Cluster Infection

A nursing home in New Taipei City is under scrutiny following allegations of a cluster infection of genital warts, commonly known as "cauliflower disease." A family is demanding a thorough investigation after a resident, a woman surnamed Chen, who was admitted in November 2023, was diagnosed with the condition in February and later died on May 8 from complications including kidney failure.

Chen's family expressed disbelief that their mother, who was bedridden, could contract such an infection. They reported witnessing a staff member change medication while wearing gloves, then touch non-clean items before returning to the patient's wound without changing the gloves. This alleged lapse in infection control protocols has raised serious concerns among the family.

Further investigation by reporters revealed that this may not be an isolated incident at the facility. Records indicate at least five cases of genital warts over the past three years, with another patient recently diagnosed. Given that many residents have mobility issues and are bedridden, the possibility of cross-infection through inadequate nursing practices is a significant concern.

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I saw a staff member change medication while wearing gloves, touch other non-clean items, and then re-contact the wound without changing gloves.

The family also raised issues regarding wound care and environmental hygiene. They noted that the patient's condition worsened rapidly, and after surgery, complications arose. They also pointed to instances where wound dressings were allegedly handled improperly and expressed concerns about the cleanliness of the environment, citing moldy air mattresses and soiled wheelchairs, which could increase infection risks for vulnerable residents.

In response to these allegations, the nursing home's management could not be reached for comment by the time of publication. The family is urging the New Taipei City government to form a cross-departmental task force to conduct an unannounced inspection, comprehensively investigate infection control, wound care, staffing, and environmental hygiene, and ensure corrective actions are taken to prevent future tragedies.

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It's been too long since we changed dressings, so we're a bit rusty.