The government has unveiled its latest attempt to get to grips with hospital "superbugs".

The National Patient Safety Agency announced on Wednesday that all hospitals will have to make disinfecting alcohol based hand rubs available near every patient by April next year.

The move was designed to clamp down on infections such as the potentially fatal MRSA, estimated to be passed on to around 10,000 patients every year though poor hygiene in the NHS.

Launching the new "clean your hands" campaign health minister Lord Warner said trials had shown simple measures could be effective in reducing incidences of the disease.

"Tackling these infections has to be a major priority for all healthcare staff, as well as the government," he said.

"This campaign by the National Patient Safety Agency is a world first which deals with the problem at a number of levels.

"Evidence from the pilot has shown us that by providing disinfectant hand rubs by each patient's bed, raising awareness generally and actively encouraging patients to ask staff if they have cleaned their hands, we can make a real impact for the benefit of all."

Earlier this year health secretary John Reid promised to bring "the best in the world" to Britain to provide expert advice on reducing infection rates.

The issue has risen up the political agenda in recent years as various measures have failed to stem the flow of the disease.