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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a fatal case of invasive community-associated Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection involving a 61-year-old man.
The patient, with underlying illness, lived in Tsuen Wan. He presented with left neck swelling since January 17. He was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on January 27 and was diagnosed as having a left parotid abscess.
An operation was performed on January 30. The patient's condition deteriorated and he passed away on February 1.
The oral cavity swab and blood specimen taken from the patient grew MRSA.
He had no recent travel history. His household contacts were asymptomatic.
The CHP's 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 have observed MRSA infections in healthy individuals who have not been hospitalised or stayed in other health-care facilities or institutions, nor received medical procedures in the year before the onset of symptoms. The cases are known as CA-MRSA infections and usually have special patterns of antibiotic resistance.
It is widely recognised that indiscriminate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotics resistance, a CHP spokesman said.
People are advised not to use antibiotics without professional advice. If they are advised by doctors to take antibiotics, they should take the medicine according to the prescribed frequency and dosage. People should observe good personal hygiene including washing hands with liquid soap frequently.
For further information on CA-MRSA, please visit the CHP website, www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Monday, February 13, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:28
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