A new study has revealed that though the number of patients infected by MRSA has decreased, still it continues to pose a threat to the patients. It also states that many other potential infections have also shown an upward trend.

It has been estimated that approximately 25000 patients get infected by MRSA yearly and healthcare infections costs around _233.75m a year to the heath care department. In comparison to the common population, the people infected by MRSA are seven times more prone to an illness caused by the infection.

If the infections are prevented by the health care authorities, it could lead to a saving amounting to _7.6 million. Due attention have to be given to the impact of cost cutting on the provision of these services.

The factors which are obstacles in keeping the infection under control are the deficiency of the isolation rooms and lack of bedding facilities and improper cleaning facilities. The positive aspect is the availability of sufficient drugs to combat the disease.

Dr. Edmond Smyth, Beaumont Hospital microbiologist said, "MRSA is still a major issue resulting in illness and in some cases death".