Each year about 300,000 people pick up an infection.

Chemists at Solutions 21, in Redditch, Worcestershire, have developed cloths which they say kill the bacteria responsible for the infection.

The cloths are being trialled in a number of hospitals across the UK, including two in Birmingham.

A company spokesman said it had also found a "cure for MRSA" but needed �1.5m to test it.

Chief chemist Tony Lockett said: "The solution has worked in curing MRSA in tests carried out in our own laboratory but it has to then undergo 18 months of tests before it can be available publicly which will cost a lot of money."

The solution used on the cloths can be diluted 1,600 times and still be effective Chief chemist Tony Lockett

In extensive testing carried out by university experts, the wipes have proved 100% reliable in preventing the outbreak.

Mr Lockett said the cloths also killed seven other deadly bacteria, including bacteria producing E-coli, which have so far been resistant to antibiotics and disinfectant.

"The solution used on the cloths can be diluted 1,600 times and still be effective," he told BBC News.

Other bugs

"If left on a surface it will be effective for 24 hours.

"We're currently working on a mist which can be used on floors and curtains to fight MRSA."

Each year about 300,000 people, or nine in every 100, who go into hospital will pick up an infection there.