Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 95: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has received complaints regarding the prevalence of MRSA in private nursing homes, geriatric hospitals or other institutions caring for the elderly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3703/06]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

A number of concerns have been raised with the Department of Health and Children regarding the prevalence of MRSA in private nursing homes, geriatric hospitals or other institutions caring for older people. The HSE has been asked to pursue the issues raised and replies will issue directly to the relevant correspondents.

An interdivisional group has been established in the Department, comprising the office of the chief medical officer, community health, acute hospitals and services for older people. The purpose of this group is to engage formally with the HSE to oversee the implementation of a strategy to combat health care associated infection and anti-microbial resistance. The HSE has submitted its national service plan for 2006 to the group and this is under consideration. The Department is continuing to engage with the HSE to agree on a series of actions over the next period of time so that MRSA can be effectively dealt with so as to see a reduction in the incidence and effects of these infections.