*************************************************
In response to media enquiries on cases of community-associated Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA) – a drug resistant bacteria, a spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said:
CHP has been addressing the issue of CA-MRSA through surveillance, case investigation, and education of doctors and the public.
Since 1990, the Department of Health has implemented a surveillance system to monitor the trends of antibiotic resistance in bacteria that are commonly found in the community setting of Hong Kong.
In connection with CA-MRSA, a surveillance protocol has been developed by CHP and other stakeholders. When being notified of a case of CA-MRSA, CHP would conduct investigations and screens family members of patients for the bacteria. Decolonisation treatment (to eradicate the bacteria) will be provided to those who were found to be positive to reduce the chance of spread of the organism.
CHP regularly promulgates information and education on CA-MRSA through its website and other channels.
To further enhance awareness of CA-MRSA and facilitate early intervention, CHP will send letters to doctors updating them of the latest situation and reminding them to notify CHP if a case is detected.
MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics. CA-MRSA usually occurs in people who have not been hospitalised nor had a medical procedure within the past year.
The main mode of transmission is direct contact with wounds, discharge and soiled areas, usually via hands which may then contaminate other parts of the body. The bacteria usually cause skin and soft tissue infections, and sometimes life-threatening pneumonia and septicemia.
It is widely recognised that proper use of antibiotics can reduce the emergence of antibiotic resistant organisms, including MRSA.
People are advised not to use antibiotics without medical professional advice. They should take antibiotics according to the frequency and dosage as prescribed by doctors and complete the whole course.
The risk of transmission can be minimised by maintaining good personal hygiene including washing hands with soap frequently. People should also disinfect wounds promptly to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
Ends/Tuesday, October 3, 2006
Issued at HKT 17:26
NNNN