Nov 8 2004
Blood borne infection rates of the hospital superbug MRSA will be halved by 2008, Health Secretary John Reid said in a speech last week.
MRSA stands for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. Staphylococcus aureus is a common type of bacteria that can cause illness, and methicillin is a powerful antibiotic drug.
Mr Reid said that the target of March 2008 is extremely challenging and everyone from hospital cleaners to consultants had a role to play.
"At the centre of this are our hospitals and the staff who work in them.
"Nurses, doctors and other infection control staff will be in the front line of this drive to fight hospital infections."
All NHS Trusts will have to identify high-risk sources of infection and draw up comprehensive action plans to beat the infection.
The Health Secretary added:
"I have made it clear that lowering rates of healthcare acquired infections, such as MRSA is a top priority, and that the Government is committed to a relentless campaign to control MRSA."
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