Levels of MRSA are falling in Glasgow's hospitals

The latest figures show that levels of the MRSA bug have fallen by 20% in the city's hospitals in the last year.

But the board said it was determined to drive the rate down further.

Awareness posters highlighting the importance of thorough hand washing are being directed at NHS staff, patients and hospital visitors.

There will also be hand hygiene workshops for NHS staff, including doctors, and a manual for Glasgow's acute hospitals.

Raise awareness

Dr Syed Ahmed, consultant in public health medicine, said the aim was to raise awareness of MRSA and other infections.

"We are re-doubling our efforts with this unprecedented level of campaigning to drive down infection rates and boost public confidence in their health service," he said.

"The downward trend in MRSA rates is very welcome and results from determined efforts to tackle healthcare associated infection rates across Glasgow's hospitals.

There is no room for complacency Professor Sir John Arbuthnott NHS Greater Glasgow chairman

"Every possible effort to further improve infection rates will be implemented with enthusiasm and determination."

The chairman of NHS Greater Glasgow, Professor Sir John Arbuthnott, added: "We must all remain on high alert to the threat from MRSA .

"That is why NHS Greater Glasgow is launching this hard-hitting campaign to ensure that all hospital staff, patients and visitors are aware of the risks and the control measures that must be observed.