Hospital-acquired Infection

HC Deb 10 November 2000 vol 356 cc430-1W

Mr. Jim Cunningham

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to combat hospital-acquired infection. [136686]

Mr. Denham

[holding answer 6 November 2000]: Action to tackle the problem of hospital acquired infection (HAI) has been set as a "must-do" for the National Health Service and is specifically identified in the National Priorities Guidance. An action plan to strengthen the management and control of infection in hospitals was issued to the NHS in February 2000. Regional directors of public health will ensure that robust infection control arrangements are in place and they are currently assessing progress. All hospitals will take part in national surveillance of HAI from April 2001.