SNP DELIVER RECORD LOW HOSPITAL INFECTION RATES

SNP DELIVER RECORD LOW HOSPITAL INFECTION RATES

GOVERNMENT STRATEGY DELIVERING RECORD RESULTS

C.DIFF & MRSA rates have fallen across Scotland over the last two years.

Rates of C.difficile have fallen by 44% since the SNP came to office in 2007
And rates of MRSA are down by 26%.

In March 2007 there were 1775 cases of C.Diff amongst the over 65’s, today’s figures show there has been a fall to 996 cases.

Cases of MRSA are down to 145, the lowest level since reporting began.

Alongside the nationwide fall in infection rates there have been major falls in Glasgow and Clyde , Lanarkshire and Lothian, Forth Valley, Fife and Highland healthboards.

SNP MSP, former GP and Health Committee member Dr Ian McKee praised the efforts of NHS staff and the additional funding from the Scottish Government to tackle hospital infections.

Lothians MSP Dr McKee said:

“Today’s figures show that real progress is being made under the SNP to tackle hospital acquired infection.

“A 44% fall in cases of c.difficile is a dramatic drop in 2 years and one which I firmly welcome. This shows the SNP is doing what it takes to tackle Hospital Acquired Infections.

“The additional funding from the SNP Government of £21 million this year and the measures being taken by Nicola Sturgeon to improve hospital hygiene are making a huge improvement.

“The efforts of NHS staff to keep hospitals infection free and ensure the best treatment for patients must be commended.

"NHS nurses and doctors are working incredibly hard to tackle hospital infections and today's results show it is paying off. There will always be more to do to keep infection at bay but together we have made great strides forward.

"The SNP is delivering for health in Glasgow. With additional funding for Glasgow NHS to tackle hospital infections this year the improvement in Glasgow and Clyde is a real testament to the work of the staff in our hospitals."