Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are an increasing problem worldwide and need to be addressed urgently. In the European Union, about 7% of patients in acute care hospitals experience HAIs; recent analysis discloses an even higher prevalence in developing countries. The international contributors to this book, in drawing on
their considerable experience in different settings, perform an important function by
clarifying the main issues for tackling HAIs. Their assessment necessarily covers
both the characteristics of the principal pathogens and the key organisational and
operational factors implicated for hospitals and their staff. This detailed analysis is

accompanied by discussion of best practice for preventing and managing the chal-
lenges presented by HAIs. I welcome the emerging perspective from this book that

emphasises that the options for antibiotic policy must cover a broad range of activi-
ties. There are policy issues to face for surveillance, for prudent and responsible

prescribing, for developing and implementing guidelines for infection control, and
for raising awareness of the threat of HAIs throughout the medical profession and
with patients.