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Molecular epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a pediatric ward
Koichi Murono1, Yoshiki Hirano, Jiwei Zhang
1Department of Pediatrics, Asahikawa Medical College, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka, Higashi, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan. murono5p@asahikawa-med.ac.jp
Background:
Nosocomial infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are one of the most serious problems in pediatric wards. Epidemiological analysis of strains isolated in the ward is essential for infection control. There have been few reports in which a molecular epidemiological study of MRSA was performed in pediatric wards.
Methods:
Fifty-six MRSA strains isolated in the pediatric ward of Asahikawa Medical College Hospital between 1995 and 1997 were studied. Fifty-two and four isolates were obtained from 27 patients and from two medical staff members, respectively. Forty-one isolates were regarded as colonizing strains and 15 were causes of infections. Genotypes of the isolates were investigated by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE).
Results:
The PFGE patterns of 56 isolates were classified into nine types: type A, its subtypes, A1 and A2, and types B through to G. Seventeen isolates were type A, 32 were type A1, and one of each type of A2 and B through to G were identified. Fifty of 56 isolates, which were isolated from 24 of 29 cases, belonged to type A or its subtypes.
Conclusions:
The predominant strain of MRSA isolates in the pediatric ward was a certain strain that may be originated from the one clone. Cross-infection control therefore is the major procedure in the prevention of MRSA dissemination in the ward.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major concern in pediatric wards. Molecular analysis revealed a predominant MRSA clone, highlighting the importance of cross-infection control to prevent its spread.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Nosocomial infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) pose a significant threat in pediatric settings.
- Effective infection control strategies rely on understanding the epidemiology of circulating MRSA strains.
- Limited molecular epidemiological studies of MRSA in pediatric wards exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a molecular epidemiological investigation of MRSA strains isolated from a pediatric ward.
- To identify the predominant MRSA genotypes and their origins within the hospital environment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 56 MRSA isolates from patients and medical staff between 1995-1997.
- Distinguishing between colonizing and infectious MRSA strains.
- Genotyping of isolates using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE).
Main Results:
- MRSA isolates were classified into nine PFGE types (A, A1, A2, B-G).
- Type A and its subtypes (A1, A2) were predominant, accounting for 50 of 56 isolates.
- The majority of isolates from patients and staff belonged to the dominant Type A clone.
Conclusions:
- A single clone likely accounts for the predominant MRSA strains in the pediatric ward.
- Implementing robust cross-infection control measures is crucial for preventing MRSA dissemination.