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The Department of Health recently announced new guidance on the clothing of staff including doctors within the NHS. The policy states: 'There is no conclusive evidence that uniforms (or other work clothes) pose a significant hazard in terms of spreading infection'. It goes on to say:'It seems that the public believe there is a risk'. This guidance received significant publicity through the media as a government push to reduce hospital infections. The health secretary described the guidance as 'a clear signal to patients that doctors, nurses and other clinical staff are taking their safety seriously'.