28th February 2006

MRSA deaths up by almost a quarter

The Office for National Statistics has revealed that between 2003 and 2004, Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA as it is more commonly known, was mentioned on 1,168 death certificates - an increase of 213 (22%) on the previous year.

The statistics also showed that MRSA was mentioned on 2 out of every 1,000 death certificates in England and Wales.

It does not necessarily mean that the infection was the cause of death; however that it was a contributory factor.

Tackling MRSA

It has been found that thorough cleaning helps prevent the spread of MRSA within hospital wards and hand-washing is extremely important.

Karen Jennings, head of Health at Unison said "It's time to get back to basics and bring in more cleaners to make sure that hospital wards and departments are kept clean and infection free. Hospital cleaners are battling against the odds with too many wards to clean and not enough staff. They complain about cheap disinfectants, shoddy equipment and a lack of training which are all barriers to cleaner Hospitals."

This story was reported in full by the BBC on 23rd February 2006. You can read the full story on the BBC News website.

Personal Injury Compensation Claims

If you or a member of your family has been affected by MRSA or another medical negligence matter you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. We can even help you if a member of your family has died as a result of a medical error.

For free claim advice, telephone Clear Answers on 0800 783 9019 or complete one of our online compensation claim forms.

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