PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE (22 January 2007)

That this House notes that reported levels of the hospital-acquired infection clostridium difficile were seven times higher than methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus in 2005, and in 2004 was responsible for at least four times as many deaths; notes that at the same time there is inadequate recording of cases of clostridium difficile, as only cases amongst those aged 65 years and over require mandatory surveillance; further notes the inadequate reporting of clostridium difficile as a contributory factor on a death certificate; highlights the growing concern over increased numbers of cases and the distress the infection causes to the patient and their loved ones; acknowledges the recent publication of a professional letter by the Chief Medical Officer, the Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Pharmacist Officer and the Chief Executive of the NHS and its recommendations for the controlling of clostridium difficile and urges their full and effective implementation; emphasises the importance of basic hygiene in tackling clostridium difficile and in particular the use of soap and water for hand washing, the need for early diagnosis and the adequate isolation of infected patients; and calls for better information and education for health care professionals, patients and their family and friends regarding clostridium difficile and its treatment and for the general profile of clostridium difficile to be raised.

Sponsored by:
Mr David Burrowes (Conservative)