A snap review into New South Wales hospitals has revealed serious maintenance issues, including possums, asbestos, and pigeons, following a mould outbreak at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred hospital that led to two patient deaths. The health minister has pledged swift action to improve hygiene.

The New South Wales health minister has denied allegations of covering up a deadly fungal outbreak at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred hospital, stating the information was withheld to avoid unnecessarily scaring the public.