What is the concern about MRSA?
The increasing frequency of antimicrobial resistance among infectious organisms is of great concern to both medical providers and the general public. Of particular concern is the possibility of spread of multi-drug resistant germs in the community. Since the first reported episode of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection in the United States in 19681, the proportion of S. aureus isolates resistant to methicillin causing infections in hospitalized patients has risen significantly from 2% in 19742 to about 40% 1997. Over the past 20 years, infections with MRSA have been limited primarily to patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities. However, recent reports of “community-acquired” MRSA infections raise concern. These infections, reportedly occur in otherwise healthy, non-hospitalized persons without contact with healthcare personnel or other colonized patients3. A report of MRSA infections leading to four deaths in previously healthy children demonstrated t
