Staphylococcus aureus are normal inhabitants of the nose, skin, and intestinal tract of humans. Estimates of nasal carriage based on the NHANES nasal Swab survey (2001-2002) show that carriage rates for S. aureus are about 32% with rates approaching 50% in children ages 6-11. Nasal carriage of MRSA methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was found to be about 0.8%. S. aureus can also be found as both a pathogen and colonizer in both household pets and companion animals. There have also been reported cases of S. aureus disease among captive dolphins and a killer whale. S. aureus has even been reported in marine fish. It is well known that S. aureus can persist on environmental surfaces and fomites for up 9 weeks. S. aureus has also been isolated from a variety of environments including sea water, pools, saunas, mop heads, towels, etc. Community acquired infections are primarily associated with skin diseases but other infections are seen as well (wounds, UTI, sinusitis, bacteremia and pneumonia). Since the mid 90’s an increase in the number of cases that are resistant to methicillin have increased and have produced outbreaks among various groups. Factors associated with transmission include frequent contact, contaminated surfaces and shared items, and personal hygiene. Data for many aspects of controlling these infections are lacking but some steps should include: collection of diagnostic specimens, incision and drainage, adequate patient follow up, targeting with specific antibiotics, appropriate care and containment of wounds, enhanced personal hygiene, maintaining a clean environment, surveillance, and education. There is a need for additional studies to understand the best methods and control of community acquired-staphylococcal infections.
Presenter:
Matthew J. Arduino, M.S., Dr.P.H.
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion and Infection Prevention
Friday, August 12, 2005
11:00 a.m.
Pacific Ocean Science & Technology Building 723
Refreshments will be served after the seminar in POST 121
The Pacific Research Center for Marine Biomedicine (PRCMB) is a newly established center at the University of Hawaii dedicated to trans-disciplinary research designed to gain new knowledge about the profound impacts of the ocean on human health. The Center is funded by the National Science Foundation (OCE04-32479) and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (P50ES012740).
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