Shift in Staphylococcus aureus clone linked to an infected tattoo.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is a significant pathogen.
• Correctional facilities can be hotspots for infectious disease transmission.
• Understanding MRSA genotype shifts is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the changing MRSA genotypes in a Wisconsin correctional facility.
• To identify the predominant MRSA strain over time.
• To explore potential transmission dynamics of MRSA.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) cases.
• Review of case timelines and MRSA strain typing data.
• Genotypic characterization of MRSA isolates.

Main Results:

• A shift in MRSA genotypes was observed among inmates.
• The USA400 clone was displaced by the USA300 clone.
• The index case of USA300 infection was linked to a new tattoo.

Conclusions:

• The study suggests a genotypic shift in CA-MRSA strains within the correctional facility.
• USA300 appears to be emerging or displacing older strains like USA400.
• Tattooing may represent a potential risk factor for MRSA SSTIs.