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Control of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus outbreak involving several hospitals
S Pastila1, K T Sammalkorpi, J Vuopio-Varkila
1Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, 13530 Hämeenlinna, Finland. satu.pastila@welho.com
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|October 27, 2004
Summary
A methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) epidemic caused by strain E1 in Helsinki was controlled through isolation, barrier nursing, and contact screening. Coordinated policies and cooperation were key to managing this significant MRSA outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- A significant methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) epidemic, identified as strain E1, occurred in the greater Helsinki region.
- The epidemic involved 210 cases across multiple hospitals between June 1991 and December 2000, peaking in 1993-1995.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiology of a large MRSA E1 epidemic in the Helsinki region.
- To identify factors contributing to the control of the MRSA E1 epidemic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study utilizing data from the joint patient register of municipal hospitals.
- Implementation of isolation, barrier nursing, contact cohorting, and screening for MRSA colonization from August 1993.
- Administration of decolonization treatment to chronic carriers.
Main Results:
- The annual incidence of MRSA E1 in Helsinki rose from 0.2 per 100,000 inhabitants in 1991 to a peak of 13.6 in 1994.
- Following control measures, the incidence decreased significantly to 0.7 per 100,000 by 2000.
- The epidemic comprised 210 cases, with 68% occurring during the 1993-1995 peak.
Conclusions:
- A jointly agreed policy and timely cooperation among healthcare units were crucial for controlling the MRSA E1 epidemic.
- Effective infection control strategies, including isolation and contact management, were instrumental in reducing MRSA incidence.