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Infectious disease outbreaks in competitive sports, 2005-2010

Cathal James Collins1, Brian O'Connell

  • 1Central Pathology Laboratory, Trinity College Dublin, St. James's Dublin, 8, Ireland. collinc6@tcd.ie

Journal of Athletic Training
|October 17, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Infectious disease outbreaks in sports are common, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and tinea being frequent culprits, particularly in close-contact activities. These findings highlight the need for better prevention strategies in athletic settings.

Area of Science:

  • Sports Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Infectious agents pose a continuous risk to athlete participation.
  • Understanding outbreaks is crucial for maintaining sports integrity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent medical literature on infectious disease outbreaks in sports.
  • Focus on outbreaks occurring between May 2005 and November 2010.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published literature.
  • Identification and analysis of infectious disease outbreaks or clusters in athletes.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-one outbreaks were identified.
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and tinea were the most common pathogens.
  • Skin and soft tissue infections were most prevalent (71%).

Conclusions:

  • Outbreaks predominantly occurred in close-contact sports like wrestling, judo, and American football.
  • High school and collegiate athletes were most affected (57%).
  • Common pathogens like influenza and norovirus received limited attention in the reviewed literature.

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