CASES of the hospital-acquired infection MRSA have fallen by 90 per cent in Bournemouth and Poole over the last two years – but a new campaign has been launched to remind visitors of the importance of keeping their hands clean.

Life-size cardboard cut-outs and posters of matrons and other health professionals are being put up in hospitals to remind members of the public how they can help in the battle against infection.

Research shows that hospital-acquired infections are among the main healthcare concerns for local people, although Poole Hospital and the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals have very low rates.

Both trusts routinely screen patients who come in for planned procedures. They also have infection control teams and intensive cleaning plans. The campaign coincides with the start of the winter period, which usually brings an increase in infection.

Sarah Elliot, director of patient safety at NHS Bournemouth and Poole, said: “We are immensely proud that both our local NHS hospitals have very low rates of infection.

“They have achieved this through constant monitoring and the high quality of their cleaning services. This campaign will help to remind visitors that they can help keep patients safe.”

Jacqui Campbell, senior infection control nurse at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, said: “Although our infection rates are very low, we are not complacent and we are always looking for new ways to cut infection rates further.”

Denise Richards, matron for infection prevention and control at Poole Hospital, said: “Local hospitals are committed to maintaining high hygiene standards and doing everything that we can to prevent the spread of infections, but it is essential that visitors to the hospital understand they have a role to play too.

“By staying away from the hospital if they have had symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting in the last 48 hours and using the hand gels we provide, the public can help make hospitals safer.”

The campaign was designed following consultation with a panel of Local Involvement Networks (Links) representatives from Poole, Dorset and Bournemouth.