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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 25) confirmed a case of community associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA)infection - a drug resistant bacterium - involving a 34-year-old man.
The man, living alone in Sheung Wan, presented with skin infection over the lip and neck on October 11. He was admitted to a private hospital on Hong Kong Island on October 14 for progressive illness and fever. He subsequently developed severe pneumonia and septicaemia (bacteria in blood). He remains in hospital but is now in stable condition.
Laboratory tests on his blood culture and wound swab yielded positive result to MRSA. Further tests indicated that the bacteria have genes characteristic of CA-MRSA.
Investigation indicates that the man had no definite history of hospitalisation in the past 12 months. The CHP has initiated investigations on his contact history.
MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. It is a common infection worldwide and is usually associated with hospital settings.
In recent year, many countries observed MRSA infections in health individuals who have not been hospitalized 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 different patterns of antibiotic resistance.
A total of 131 CA-MRSA cases have been reported to the CHP so far this year.
It is widely recognised that indiscriminate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotics resistance.
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 and complete the whole course.
The risk of transmission can be minimised by maintaining good personal hygiene including washing their hands with soap frequently and to wear gloves in touching grossly soiled items.
Ends/Thursday, October 25, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:30
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