IT IS too early to start celebrating success as Midlands hospitals battle against those dreadful infections MRSA and Clostridium difficule.
But let us at least recognise the efforts of health managers, doctors, nurses and other staff in driving down the number of cases over the past six months.
The fall may be small, but the move is in the right direction.
Now, with Midland hospital infection rates well above the national average, the challenge is to reduce the number of cases much more dramatically.
It is inexcusable that patients should pick up life-threatening and potentially disfiguring bugs when they are in hospital and at their most vulnerable.
Hospital hygiene – of buildings, equipment and staff – should be beyond reproach.
This battle will be won by vigilance, determination and good, old fashioned common sense.
MRSA and C.diff are formidable enemies, but they can be eradicated. And they must be.