Infection rates in Scotland at all-time low

Rates of both C.difficile and MRSA in Scottish hospitals are now at their lowest ever levels, according to a report published this week by Health Protection Scotland. The figures, covering January to March 2011, show that Scotland has exceeded the challenge of a 50% reduction in C.diff rates for over 65s by delivering a 71% decrease. The extra tough target was set by the Health Secretary in March 2010 after good progress was made on the official target of 30%. The figures also show 69 cases of MRSA, 13 less than the previous quarter and a reduction of 41% compared to the same quarter last year. Health Secretary, Nicola Sturgeon, said: "Today's figures clearly show our strenuous efforts and zero tolerance approach to superbugs are reaping significant rewards. NHS boards have not only met the extra C.diff target I set, but they have outdone it. I would like to congratulate them on all their hard work. But there is no room for complacency and everyone must remain vigilant to ensure that case numbers continue to fall."