14 Jul 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (July 14) confirmed a fatal case of community-associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA) infection involving a 42-year-old man.
The patient presented with fever, cough and chest pain on July 3. He was admitted to Ruttonjee Hospital on July 8. On admission, he was found to have pneumonia. He subsequently developed respiratory failure, requiring ventilatory support. His condition deteriorated and he died on July 10. His blood culture was positive for MRSA. Further tests indicated that the bacteria had genes characteristic of CA-MRSA.
Investigation is ongoing.
MRSA is a type of staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a common infection worldwide. In recent years, many countries observed MRSA infections in healthy individuals who have not been hospitalised or stayed in other healthcare facilities or institutions, nor received medical procedures in the past one year prior to onset of symptoms. They are known as CA-MRSA infections and usually have special patterns of antibiotic resistance.
As of end of June, a total of 167 CA-MRSA cases have been reported to the CHP this year.
It is widely recognised that indiscriminate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotics resistance, the spokesman said.
Members of the public are advised not to use antibiotics without medical professional advice. If they are advised by doctors to take antibiotics, they should take the medicine according to the prescribed frequency and dosage. Members of the public are advised to observe good personal hygiene including washing hands with soap frequently.
For further information on CA-MRSA, please visit the CHP website: www.chp.gov.hk .