Major water leak in Manchester’s Oxford Road Four major hospitals have been forced to cancel operations over a water leak that has reportedly left some patients unable to use toilets or take medication.
Patients have complained of water being unavailable throughout whole hospitals – with medical staff seen being forced to use bottled water to wash their hands.
Parents of young, sick babies say they are especially worried about the risk of infection – with several questioning why there is no back-up plan in place.
A statement from Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust said they are experiencing problems with water supply due to a mains leak off site and are urging people not to attend the affected hospitals, unless it’s urgent.
One patient told the MEN: “They came in around 5pm and told us there was no water so we couldn’t use the toilets or showers.” “They said it was the entire site, not just MRI.
"It seems to be back now but I can’t see how five United Utility tanks are going to keep it going.” A man called Jamie told the MEN he received a message from his partner shortly before 6pm saying there was no water in hospital.
"That means no-one can get a shower, have a drink and lots of other things.
"We will be endeavouring to contact all patients affected this evening.
"We would like to thank all patients and staff for their co-operation at this time."
United Utilities said: "Our teams are still on site working hard to repair the burst water pipe.