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Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in New Zealand 1988-90
H Heffernan1, J Stehr-Green, H Davies
1New Zealand Communicable Disease Centre, Porirua.
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|March 10, 1993
Summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains infrequently isolated in New Zealand, with most cases linked to hospital settings or overseas travel. The bacteria has not become endemic in New Zealand hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant global health threat.
- Surveillance of MRSA is crucial for understanding its epidemiology and informing control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive survey of MRSA in New Zealand between 1988 and 1990.
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of MRSA isolates during this period.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of MRSA isolates and associated epidemiological data reported to the New Zealand Communicable Disease Centre.
- Categorization of isolates by patient demographics, healthcare exposure, and geographical origin.
Main Results:
- MRSA was isolated from 255 individuals (235 patients, 20 healthcare staff) over three years.
- The majority of cases (84%) were associated with hospital patients or staff, with males and children aged 0-14 years more frequently affected.
- One-third of strains originated internationally, primarily from Australia and Pacific Islands, and MRSA isolation rates were higher in the North Island.
Conclusions:
- MRSA isolation remained infrequent in New Zealand during 1988-1990.
- MRSA had not become endemic in New Zealand hospitals during the study period.