Healthcare associated infections

Healthcare-associated infections can happen during healthcare delivery in hospitals, residential facilities, outpatient services and even in a patient's home.

Norovirus

Norovirus is the most common tummy bug in Ireland. It's known as the 'vomiting bug' and spreads easily from person-to-person.

MRSA

MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It's a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

C. diff

Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) are bacteria (bugs) that live in the gut. C. diff spreads more easily inside a hospital.

CPE

CPE (Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacterales) are bacteria (bugs) that live in the gut.

ESBLs

ESBLs (Extended-spectrum Betalactamase) are common antibiotic-resistant bacteria known as 'superbugs'.

VRE

VRE are a type of superbug. This means that some antibiotics once used to treat them no longer work very well.

IV line infection

An intravenous (IV) line is used to give you blood, fluid or medicine. An IV line can make it easier for harmful bugs to spread.

Urinary catheter infection

A urinary catheter is a small plastic tube that passes into your bladder. A catheter can make it easier for harmful bugs to spread.

Antibiotics

Read advice about antibiotics - medicines used to treat bacterial infections.

C. auris

C. auris is a type of fungus that is resistant to antibiotics. These are often called 'superbugs'.