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CHP investigates case of community-associated MRSA infection
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 6) investigating a case of community-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection, and hence appealed to members of the public to stay vigilant against CA-MRSA.

     The male patient, aged 91 with underlying illnesses, presented with decreased general condition since October 17 and consulted a private doctor on October 23. He was referred to the Accident and Emergency Department of Kwong Wah Hospital and was hospitalised on the same day for further management.

     He was diagnosed with urinary tract infection and septicaemia, and was discharged on November 4 in a stable condition.

     His blood specimen yielded CA-MRSA upon laboratory testing by the CHP's Public Health Laboratory Services Branch.

     Initial enquiries revealed that the patient had no recent travel history. His home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. 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 healthcare facilities or institutions, or 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 spokesman for the CHP said.

     People are advised not to use antibiotics without professional medical 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.

     The public may visit the CHP's CA-MRSA page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/5392.html) for further information and preventive advice.

Ends/Thursday, November 6, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:34

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