What is MRSA?
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus but is shorthand for any strain of Staphylococcus bacteria that is resistant to one or more conventional antibiotics.
Experts have so far uncovered 17 strains of MRSA, with differing degrees of immunity to the effects of various antibiotics. Staphylococcus is a family of common bacteria. Many people naturally carry it in their throats.
Two particular strains, clones 15 and 16, are thought to be more transmissible than the others and approximately account for 96% of MRSA bloodstream infections in the UK. Antibiotics are not completely useless against MRSA however patients may require a much higher dose over a much longer period.
Hygiene is another tried and tested way of at least protecting the most vulnerable patients from the most dangerous strains.
Members of Parliament are trying to improve overall standards of hygiene by scrutinising the external cleaning contractors performance and reintroducing the concept of the ward matron with overall responsibility for cleanliness. 
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