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Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in two child care centers
P M Adcock1, P Pastor, F Medley
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Kentucky, USA.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|August 11, 1998
Summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is spreading in childcare centers. This study found MRSA colonization in 3% of children at one center and 24% at another, indicating community spread.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant public health concern.
- Limited research exists on MRSA prevalence and transmission within childcare settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of MRSA colonization in children attending two childcare centers.
- To investigate the molecular epidemiology of MRSA strains found in these centers.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving nasal swab collection from children at two childcare centers.
- Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) used for strain typing to assess genetic relatedness.
Main Results:
- MRSA colonization was detected in 3% of children at Center X and 24% at Center Y.
- Identical MRSA strains (PFGE type B) were found in index patients and colonized children at both centers.
- A different MRSA strain (PFGE type A) was also identified at Center Y, suggesting multiple introductions or strains circulating.
Conclusions:
- Childcare centers can serve as environments for MRSA transmission and colonization.
- The findings suggest accelerated community spread of MRSA, particularly among young children in group settings.
- Further research and infection control strategies are warranted for childcare environments.