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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 21) called on the public to be vigilant against infection by community-associated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), a drug resistant bacterium.
The appeal was made following the CHP's investigation into a confirmed case of invasive CA-MRSA involving a man living in Tsuen Wan.
The 39-year-old man developed a painful swelling over his right thigh since November 12 and was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on December 3. He further developed fever and chills on December 9. The patient is now in a private hospital. He is currently in stable condition.
His blood culture grew MRSA. His household contacts were asymptomatic.
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 had not been hospitalised nor stayed in other healthcare facilities or institutions, nor received medical procedures in the year before the onset of symptoms. They are known as CA-MRSA infections and usually have special patterns of antibiotic resistance.
It is widely recognised by the medical sector that indiscriminate use of antibiotics may contribute to antibiotics resistance, a CHP spokesman 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 maintain 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/Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:30
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