MRSA

MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) is a form of the common bacteria (Staphylococcus Aureus), which has become resistant to various antibiotics.  Infection with MRSA in hospitals is prevalent because of the increased risk of cross-contamination, the decreased immune system of patients, the fact that many patients have open wound sites and the frequent use of antibiotics in a hospital environment.

Over recent years there has been a great deal of publicity about MRSA infection in hospitals and the Government and NHS Trusts have introduced a variety of measures to try to minimise the risks of infection.  However, it is accepted that the risk cannot be totally eliminated, and the exact timing of infection is virtually impossible to pinpoint.

Broadly speaking, it is not usually possible to bring a claim for contracting MRSA in hospital as long as the Trust has a suitable policy in place to deal with infection control, and the Trust Managers are not wilfully turning a blind eye to failures to follow these procedures.  It would be extremely rare for a case to be successfully pursued on these grounds.

However, it is possible to pursue claims for failure to diagnose and appropriately treat an MRSA infection.  If left untreated (or wrongly treated), active MRSA infection (as opposed to colonisation with MRSA, which does not usually require treatment) can have devastating consequences and cause extensive scarring or, even worse, lead to septicaemia.

The Clinical Negligence team at Blake Lapthorn are experienced in investigating MRSA claims and we are able to rely upon the specific expertise of microbiologists and infection control experts with whom we have a very good working relationship, as well as experts from other medical fields relative to the case.  If you have been unfortunate enough to suffer very long term effects from an MRSA infection due to negligent treatment, we are also able to provide advice on future treatment and therapy options.  We shall ensure that all your ongoing care needs, employment and other financial losses are also fully taken into account when quantifying your claim to make sure that you receive an appropriate amount of compensation.

For further information please contact Alison McClure in the Clinical Negligence team on 023 8085 7345 or email alison.mcclure@bllaw.co.uk.