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Outbreak of MRSA skin infections in Bermuda

By Owain Johnston-Barnes

The Health Department is tracking an outbreak of antibiotic-resistant skin infections on the Island.

Chief Medical Officer Cheryl Peek-Ball said a single source for the Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) outbreak has been determined, and the department is working to stem the bacteria’s spread.

Dr Peek-Ball said: “Contact tracing, based on risk, is currently underway and control measures have been put in place to help prevent the spread. Additional expertise has been obtained from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).”

A letter has been sent by the Department of Health to all local physicians alerting them to be on the lookout for instances of MRSA. Clinicians are encouraged to collect specimens for culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing from all patients with abscesses and purulent skin lesions.

Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as “staph”, is a common skin bacteria which can occasionally enter the body causing an infection, the results of which can be as minor as pimples or as serious as blood infections.

MRSA is a strain of the bacteria which is immune to Methicillin, an antibiotic commonly used to combat infections, but can still be treated with other types of antibiotics.

It is spread by direct contact, skin-to-skin contact or contact between skin and a contaminated object. Infections can develop into painful red bumps, which initially appear similar to spider bites.

MRSA infection usually develops in hospital patients who are elderly, very ill, or who may have an open wound, or a tube (urinary catheter) going into their body. Healthy people, including children, are at very little risk of becoming infected with MRSA, provided that proper precautions (such as hand washing) are followed.

A Health Department spokeswoman called for members of the public to look out for possible infections, saying: “These bacteria grow and spread especially well in crowded environments.

“Any persons suspecting they have such a skin infection should promptly consult their doctor. Early diagnosis is important so that treatment can be provided.”

http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20131010/NEWS06/131019941