Dry run to beat superbugs

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Researchers are investigating the effects of humidity on hospital 'superbugs' using one of the largest biological test chambers in the world.

Researchers at

are investigating the effects of humidity on hospital 'superbugs' using one of the largest biological test chambers in the world.

The Bradford Infection Group (BIG), based at Bradford's Schools of Engineering, Design and Technology and Life Sciences, has received a £175,000-plus grant to investigate alternative methods for controlling hospital-acquired infections caused by bacteria such as acinetobacter.

Using the grant, awarded by the Department of Health's National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) NHS Physical Environment Research Programme, the BIG will undertake a two-year programme that will involve simulating a ward environment using a new 80m3 aerobiological test chamber based at the university.

'Approximately one in 10 patients pick up an infection while in hospital,' said Prof Clive Beggs, head of the BIG. 'While hand washing and other hygiene measures are vital, evidence suggests that these measures alone are not always enough to prevent certain infections and therefore a fresh approach is needed.'

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