Nicola Sturgeon has spoken on the deaths of two babies from an infection at a maternity hospital in Glasgow.

The First Minister said the health board has taken the appropriate steps to control infection at the Princes Royal Maternity Hospital where the babies died.

The two died after contracting Staphylococcus aureus. A third is in intensive care at the hospital.

Ms Sturgeon said the Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, was made aware of the cases on Monday and she has been in regular contact with the health board since then.

Speaking at First Minister’s Questions in the Scottish Parliament, she was asked for an update by Jackson Carlaw, Interim Conservative leader.

Ms Sturgeon said her “heartfelt and sincere condolences” went to the families affected.

She said regular screening of newborns is in place at the hospital, enhanced cleaning schedules and protective cleaning of equipment is being undertaken.

She added the Health board has asked Health Protection Scotland to investigate the incident.

Ms Sturgeon sought to reassure parents that everything was being done to ensure patient safety.

“Our primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of patients and their families at all times.

“The health board is taking all necessary steps to manage incident and has been in contact with affected families and others in the unit.

She said: “Staphylococcus aureus is unfortunately not an uncommon infection in hospital including with neonatal babies, cvan be found in one in four people.

“All the more important that hospitals have in place rigorous infection control measures.

“It is my job and the Health Secretary’s to ensure that is the case.”