ANNETTE FORDE,
Sir, - Having had a parent who died from this insidious infection I completely agree with Mr Sean Andrews (April 29th) concerning methecillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In my mother's case the decision to have elective surgery was reached only after exhaustive research into the pros and cons of the operation.
Despite consultation with the medical experts the risk of MRSA was never mentioned.
Once infected these patients are marginalized and the facilities within our hospitals to deal with them are at best poor and at worst unacceptable. Surprisingly, this infectious disease is not notifiable, therefore no exact statistics can be made available. Do government and health officials believe in the adage "what they don't know can not hurt them"?
As the current election issues unfold and people rightfully fight for shorter waiting lists, they should also be aware that there are other issues in our hospitals that also need urgent attention. I would reiterate what Mr Andrews asks: "Why is there no public concern about this?" - Yours, etc.,
ANNETTE FORDE, Bray, Co Wicklow.