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'Tackling infections is a key priority and the NHS has made great progress tackling both MRSA and C.difficile'

Health Minister Ann Keen

Prior to speaking at the event the Minister toured an exhibition showcasing the latest in leading edge products which will form the next front in the battle to beat healthcare associated infections.
 
Health Minister Ann Keen said: 
 
'Tackling infections is a key priority and the NHS has made great progress tackling both MRSA and C.difficile but there is still a need to battle infections on every front.' 
 
'The amazing innovations such as those on display today will be vital if we are to win the battle against infections such as MRSA and C.difficile. As a former nurse myself, I'm especially pleased that the ideas behind many of them came from NHS staff working on the frontline.'
 
Amongst the innovations on display, the Health Minister saw a revolutionary new temporary isolation room which is on display for the first time. It can be used to rapidly isolate patients who have contracted an infectious condition to prevent further spread. It features a host of new technology including an infection resistant commode, portable hand washing station, and an 'air door'. These elements have been designed in a modular way to ensure that they can be used in a variety of settings.
 
The innovations were developed as part of the HCAI Technology Innovation Programme which aims to speed up the development and adoption of new and novel medical devices and/or cleaning related technologies in the health service to further help combat HCAIs.
 
In autumn 2007 a series of workshops were held with NHS staff to find out what they needed in the form of technology to help combat infection. This process generated over 150 ideas, the best of which are now being developed and are on display at the summit.