Bosses calm fears over superbug

C diff has been a contributory factor in 12 deaths in Nottinghamshire

Hospital bosses in Nottingham have reassured staff, patients and visitors that measures are being taken to stop the spread of a superbug.

In December, Nottinghamshire coroner Dr Nigel Chapman said clostridium difficile (C Diff) had been a contributory factor in 12 deaths.

The deaths happened in a four-week period between November and December at two Nottingham hospitals.

But bosses said a range of plans were in place to prevent further deaths.

Dr Stephen Fowlie, medical director for the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "The doctors, nurses and scientists and other staff are working hard to keep patients safe.

"We have emphasized to all staff and visitors, the importance of handwashing with soap and water.

"We have also done a great deal to beef up the training all our staff receive to remind them of following the very best practices all of the time," he said.

'Serious problem'

In November, three Nottingham wards were closed over C Diff outbreak fears.

C Diff was linked to the deaths of nine patients at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre and a further three at the City Hospital in four weeks over November and December.

Dr Fowlie added a pioneering gas vapour treatment was being used in Nottingham's hospitals in the fight against C Diff.

"This is a serious problem but affects a relatively small number of patients. C Diff has become more dangerous than in previous years and the spores can be very hard to kill," he said.

C Diff is usually spread on the hands of healthcare staff and other people who come into contact with infected patients or contaminated surfaces such as floors, bedpans and toilets.