The UK Health Security Agency has published its Point Prevalence Survey (PPS) on healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), antibiotic use (AMU) and antibiotic stewardship (AMS) for England in 2023.
The survey looked at data from 121 NHS trusts and independent sector organisations across England and gives a one-day snapshot of prevalence levels in the healthcare system.
The report found that in 2023, HCAIs were present in 7.6 per cent of patients, a 1 per cent increase on the last reported figures in 2016. This rise could be attributed to increased pressure on the healthcare system following the COVID-19 pandemic and more unwell patients due to an ageing population or more patients with comorbidities. Research is being carried out to understand the increase further.
The results suggest the HCAI prevalence level in England is consistent with trends in other European countries, like Spain, Sweden and Ireland.
The results show that prevalence varied across different settings. NHS trusts, 8 per cent of patients tested positive for an HCAI, but rates of 16.6 per cent were recorded in acute specialty trusts, such as orthopaedic and children’s trusts where patients can be more susceptible to HCAIs.
Among specialty trusts, HCAI prevalence was highest in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at 15.9 per cent.
The survey also measured overall prevalence of antibiotic use, which in 2023, was measured at 34.1 per cent. This means that out of the 44,372 patients included in the analysis, 15,134 were treated with an antibiotic on the day of the survey.
Dr Colin Brown, deputy director at UKHSA, said: "It’s good to see that overall levels of healthcare-associated infections remained relatively similar in 2023, compared to 2016. This is likely thanks to the efforts of staff across the healthcare system who work tirelessly to implement effective infection prevention and control measures, and ensure antibiotics are being prescribed and taken appropriately.
"However, levels have still increased in some parts of the health service, which must be addressed – together with continuing to drive down overall levels. Work is being conducted to better understand the drivers so that we can protect patients, especially those who are more susceptible to these types of infection such as the elderly and people with comorbidities."
