Scottish Government unveils five-year strategy to control infections linked to healthcare

The Scottish Government is today publishing a five-year strategy to control healthcare associated infections and tackle antimicrobial resistance.

The strategic framework commissioned by the Scottish Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infection (SARHAI) Strategy Group will seek to ensure the safety of patients, the public and healthcare staff while making hospitals and communities a safer place.

Officials say the prevention and control of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Healthcare Association Infection (HAI) remains an important issue for all environments where healthcare is delivered, including care homes and pharmacies.

Health Secretary Shona Robison said: “Tackling antimicrobial resistance and reducing healthcare associated infections remains a key priority for this Government.

“Good progress has been made so far with the latest quarterly figures showing that, since 2007, MRSA rates have fallen by 90% and CDI rates for those aged 65 years and over have reduced by 88%.

“These significant reductions have only been possible due to the hard work, diligence and commitment of Scotland’s NHS staff and key stakeholders.

“Patients and the public deserve to have complete confidence in the cleanliness of Scottish hospitals and the quality of NHS services and I have made clear my expectation that all health boards must take cleanliness and infection control extremely seriously.”

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