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[Toxic shock syndrome complicating influenza]
1Department of Health and Welfare, Mie Prefecture.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 28, 2001
Summary
An influenza A(H3N2) outbreak in a psychiatric hospital was complicated by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. This led to toxic shock syndrome (TSS) and fatalities, suggesting influenza can trigger severe complications in MRSA carriers.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- A psychiatric hospital experienced an outbreak of influenza A(H3N2) in January 1999.
- The outbreak affected 99 inpatients, resulting in 12 deaths.
Purpose:
- To investigate the cause of severe illness and fatalities during the influenza outbreak.
- To identify potential co-infections or complicating factors.
Summary:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), producing toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1) and staphylococcal enterotoxin type C (SEC), was isolated from patients, staff, and the environment.
- A fatal case of respiratory failure in a 59-year-old male inpatient was linked to elevated serum antibodies for TSST-1 and SEC following influenza infection.
- The findings suggest a complex interplay between influenza and MRSA colonization, leading to toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Impact:
- Highlights the potential for severe complications, including TSS, when influenza co-occurs with MRSA colonization.
- Underscores the importance of infection control measures in healthcare settings, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- Suggests that influenza may act as a trigger for invasive disease in MRSA carriers.