Cases of a new superbug have been reported at hospitals which suffered fatal outbreaks of C-diff several years ago.

Ten cases of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, commonly called Steno, occurred at hospitals run by the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, between April 2007 and March 2008.

The infections did not lead to any deaths and 10 cases is not considered a high number. There have been 1,000 cases nationally.

Steno, described by researchers as an "emerging superbug" flourishes in most environments, particularly around taps and shower heads.

It can get into the body via catheters or ventilation tubes left in place for long periods of time.

A Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Trust spokesman said: "Cases of Steno are very rare.

"Patient safety is paramount and our general infection rates have fallen significantly thanks to scrupulous hygiene and infection control."

In the same year the Steno infections were reported, cases of C-diff at the trust were cut by 35 per cent, to 290 cases, compared to the 444 cases in 2006 to 2007.

How does Steno spread?