Hospital staff members are being reminded about the importance of washing their hands before touching patients in a campaign to curb the spread of infections.

Lack of hand hygiene is one of the main contributors to cross infections and hospital workers still do not wash their hands enough, Infection Control Unit consultant Michael Borg said.

"With all their best intentions, people sometimes forget to wash their hands," he said. The campaign, which will see posters put up around Mater Dei Hospital, is also encouraging patients to remind nurses and doctors of the importance of hand washing.

Health Parliamentary Secretary Joe Cassar said patients had an important role in the campaign and should not be afraid of asking doctors and nurses whether their hands are clean.

Dr Borg said alcohol rubs, available around the hospital, made it even easier for staff to clean their hands without having to find a washing basin.