Hand-washing campaign bid to cut infection rate.

A NEW hand-washing campaign has been launched in a bid to cut down the spread of bacteria and infections in hospitals.

The drive to improve hygiene by the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is aimed at the 14,500 NHS health workers in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

It also includes urging hospital visitors to use the hand-washing gel before and after entering hospital wards.

Jan Williams, the board's chief executive, said: "Hand decontamination is the single most important infection prevention and control measure and by reminding staff about the simple steps they can take, we can work together to tackle infection rates.

"By doing this, patients can be confident that we are taking every precaution to provide them with a safe environment."

Chris Jones, medical director of the board, which runs nine local hospitals and 17 health centres, said: "By working together and staying vigilant, we can reduce the chances of infection.

"Although clinicians know how to clean their hands, this campaign will act as a reminder. We have also put up posters in wards, to remind visitors to wash their hands thoroughly when visiting patients."

The latest figures for hospital associated infections, such as MRSA and Clostridium difficile, show hospitals in Wales, including the University Hospital of Wales, have achieved a major reduction in infection rates among patients in the past few years, topping the NHS league for the UK.

The figures showed that 93% of patients passed through hospital and healthcare services without acquiring a an infection.

The rate of hand hygiene compliance is now 95% to 100% on pilot wards in Welsh hospitals. Hospital acquired infections cost the NHS in Wales pounds 50m a year.