Infections that occur in the hospital are a major health concern in Europe, as well as a significant economic burden. An EU initiative developed a novel process to create antimicrobial textiles for use in hospitals.
One in 10 hospital patients are affected by nosocomial infections. The result is an extension of hospital stays by more than 10 million patient days per year in Europe alone. Impregnating hospital textiles, such as bedding and bandages, with antibacterial nanoparticles, would significantly decrease hospital-acquired infections, improve patient outcomes and save millions of euros.
Further details:
http://cordis.europa.eu