Epidemiology and control of the ‘modern’ methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

摘要: One’s perception of the problems caused by ‘modern’ methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) depends on one’s historical and geographical viewpoint. The observation that ‘sizeable outbreaks due to staphylococci have occurred in British hospitals, but until recently such seem been rather uncommon . .’ seems an accurate comment present situation south-east England one realises this was written 1968 (Leading article, 1968). concept a MRSA may imply are new hinder appraisal practical information gained from studies ‘hospital’ conducted more than 20 years ago. above quotation Lancet leading article response earliest mid-1960s, soon after introduction methicillin 1959 (Editorial, 1960). By there had geographically separated reports strains which accounted for 17.3% staphylococcal infections Zurich (Benner & Kayser, 1968), 4.1% isolates at Middlesex Hospital London (Colley, McNicol Bracken, 1965) 10% Staph. bacteraemia Denmark (Ericksen, 1967). In France were unsuccessful attempts treat with (Chabbert et al., 1965; Bastin, Worms Acar, first report outbreak USA came Boston City (Barrett, McGehee Finland, early 1970s was, internationally, general decline incidence (Shanson, 198 1) 1976 only two detailed hospital (Barrett 1968; O’Toole 1970). Birmingham UK, example, percentage patients carrying their noses declined 8.5% 1970 0% 1977 (Ayliffe, Lilly Lowbury, 1979). Problems emerged again latter half last decade is era MRSA. usually resistant gentamicin chloramphenicol,