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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus among incarcerated population in Hawai'i, 2000-2005
Fenfang Li1, F DeWolfe Miller, Paul V Effler
1School of Social Work, University of Hawai'i, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA. fenfang@hawaii.edu
Abstract:
It is estimated in this study the proportion and incidence of MRSA among the entire state of Hawai'i inmate population over a period of six years, using a statewide, population-based antimicrobial resistance surveillance system. Trend analyses were conducted on both MRSA proportion and MRSA incidence rates including MRSA patterns of antimicrobial resistance to other antibiotics. During the period from 2000 to 2005, 521 (69%) of 753 S. aureus isolates were MRSA. A significant increase in the proportion of MRSA were identified from both jail and prison inmates (p < 0.01). A significant increase in MRSA incidence was also observed among jail inmates (p = 0.005) but not among prison inmates (p = 0.18). A majority of non-beta-lactams, including clindamycin, tetracycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole remained as a good choice for the treatment of MRSA infections among inmate population in Hawai'i. Active surveillance of MRSA infection in the inmate population is an important public health tool and should be continued.
Insights
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) proportions increased significantly in Hawaii
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Microbiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant public health challenge.
- Inmate populations are at increased risk for healthcare-associated infections.
- Understanding MRSA trends in correctional facilities is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the proportion and incidence of MRSA in the Hawaii inmate population from 2000-2005.
- To analyze trends in MRSA prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns.
- To identify effective treatment options for MRSA infections in this population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a statewide, population-based antimicrobial resistance surveillance system.
- Conducted trend analyses on MRSA proportion and incidence rates.
- Examined MRSA antimicrobial resistance patterns to various antibiotics.
Main Results:
- From 2000-2005, 69% (521/753) of Staphylococcus aureus isolates were MRSA.
- A significant increase in MRSA proportion was observed in both jail and prison inmates (p < 0.01).
- MRSA incidence significantly increased in jail inmates (p = 0.005) but not prison inmates (p = 0.18).
- Clindamycin, tetracycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole demonstrated effectiveness against MRSA.
Conclusions:
- MRSA is a growing concern within the Hawaii inmate population.
- Continued active surveillance of MRSA in correctional facilities is essential for public health.
- Non-beta-lactam antibiotics remain viable treatment options for MRSA infections.
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