Cecilia Keaveney (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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Question 351: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the policy that exists in relation to hospitals telling patients and families that they have MRSA in view of the fact that a number of people would indicate they have been told they have an infection but the follow up procedures do not specify MRSA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12899/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Tackling Healthcare-Associated Infections (HCAIs), including MRSA, is a priority for the Government and for the Health Service Executive.

Recently-published studies show that in Ireland, the overall rate of HCAIs, which includes MRSA, is lower than our UK counterparts. However, it is generally accepted that MRSA infection rates in the UK and Ireland are higher than our European counterparts. Excessive antibiotic prescribing is a key cause of these higher rates.

The Health Service Executive has recently developed a National Infection Control Action Plan including governance and performance management. The plan includes a commitment to informing patients of HCAI/MRSA status and to ensuring that death certificates accurately reflect HCAI. The plan has clear targets for all hospitals, clear hygiene and infection control standards, an improved physical environment, initiatives on reducing antibiotic consumption and education of the public and of health professionals, including the current T.V. and media campaign.

Achieving these targets is a priority for the HSE so that patients can be assured that in the future their chances of contracting an infection will be reduced to the minimum level possible. To achieve this, there must be a corporate commitment throughout the HSE and services generally. Evidence-based guidelines, clear responsibility and accountability and the recognition that the public also has a role to play in improving HCAIs and MRSA are vital to achieving improvements.