Increase In MRSA Skin Infections In Bermuda

The Department of Health said they wish to inform the public that there has been an increase in the number of community acquired Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA] skin infections.

“A single point source for the MRSA outbreak has been identified,” explained Chief Medical Officer Dr. Cheryl Peek-Ball. ”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 spokesperson said, “These infections can become severe, developing into red, painful bumps that can at first appear to be spider bites. MRSA is spread by direct contact, skin to skin or skin to contaminated object. 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.

“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. A history of attendance at public facilities such as gyms and spas should be sought from individuals. Positive MRSA results should be reported to the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit at fax number 296-3283.

“Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as “staph” is a bacteria commonly found on the skin of healthy people. Occasionally, staph can get into the body and cause an infection.

“This infection can be minor such as pimples or boils, or serious such as blood infections or pneumonia. MRSA can be found on the skin, in the nose, and in blood and urine.

“Methicillin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat staph infections. Although methicillin is very effective in treating most staph infections, some staph bacteria have developed resistance to methicillin and can no longer be killed by this antibiotic. These resistant bacteria are called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA.

“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.

“Although MRSA is resistant to some antibiotics, and is often difficult to treat, a few antibiotics can still successfully cure MRSA infections. When staph infections occur and lesions are present treatment should be implemented as soon as possible.

“Healthy people, including children, are at very little risk of becoming infected with MRSA providing proper precautions (such as hand washing) are followed.

“Anyone who has a MRSA skin infection should do the following:

• Cover your wound. Keep wounds that are draining or have pus covered with clean, dry bandages until healed. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on proper care of the wound. Pus from infected wounds can contain staph, including MRSA, so keeping the infection covered will help prevent the spread to others. Bandages and tape can be discarded with the regular trash.

• Clean your hands frequently. You, your family, and others in close contact should wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after changing the bandage or touching the infected wound.

• Do not share personal items. Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, washcloths, razors, clothing, or uniforms, that may have had contact with the infected wound or bandage. Wash sheets, towels, and clothes that become soiled with water and laundry detergent. Use a dryer to dry clothes completely.

For more information or if you suspect an MRSA infection please notify your doctor immediately for assessment.

#Health

Category: All