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

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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