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Updated: Mar 7, 2026
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA
Published on: February 9, 2011
[MRSA infection via a staff member with eczema]
B P Overbeek1, W E A Maathuis-de Haan, G Stoffer
1Gelre ziekenhuizen, afd. Medische Microbiologie en Infectiepreventie, Apeldoorn.
Background:
Transmission of MRSA from livestock to humans is rare, but it is advisable to remain alert.
Case Study:
Following 2 hospital admissions within a month and a half, a 73-year-old patient was found to have become infected with MRSA. The MRSA type was livestock-related. Investigations into contact between the patient and staff revealed that 3 staff members were infected with the same bacteria; one of them had eczema on both hands. Her daughter, who worked intensively with horses, was revealed to be a carrier of the same type of MRSA.
Conclusion:
In order to prevent cross-contamination with MRSA it is essential to comply completely with hand hygiene requirements; this also applies to members of staff with skin infections such as eczema. Patient-related activities should be adapted if necessary. The company doctor plays an important role in this process.
Insights
Livestock-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) can transmit to humans, even in hospital settings. Strict hand hygiene is crucial for preventing MRSA spread, especially for staff with skin conditions like eczema.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Livestock-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) transmission to humans is uncommon but warrants vigilance.
- Healthcare settings require heightened awareness of potential MRSA transmission routes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a case of livestock-related MRSA infection in a hospital patient.
- To identify potential transmission pathways within the healthcare environment.
Main Methods:
- Case study analysis of a 73-year-old patient with MRSA infection.
- Investigation of patient-staff contact and staff infections.
- Identification of MRSA strain and its potential source.
Main Results:
- A patient acquired livestock-related MRSA following hospital admissions.
- Three healthcare staff members were infected with the same MRSA strain.
- One infected staff member had eczema; her daughter, a horse handler, was a carrier.
Conclusions:
- Adherence to stringent hand hygiene protocols is essential to prevent MRSA cross-contamination.
- Staff with skin conditions like eczema require special attention regarding MRSA prevention.
- Adapting patient care activities and involving occupational health services are key strategies.
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