Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Indigenous communities in Canada

• Main Author: Irvine, James
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Pulsus Group Inc 2012
• Subjects: Position Statement; Canada; First Nations; inuit
• Online Access: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3448546; http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23904788

Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infections have emerged as a significant issue in some Indigenous communities (including First Nations, Inuit and Métis) in Canada. Primarily associated with skin and soft-tissue infections, this organism can also result in significant morbidity and mortality. Canadian and American guidelines for managing CA-MRSA infections have been published. The specific epidemiology, microbiology and susceptibility patterns, and the social/environmental circumstances of CA-MRSA infections in Indigenous communities need to be considered for strategies to reduce transmission. While reducing household crowding and improving in-home potable water supply are optimal strategies to reduce the impact of this illness, implementing Canadian guidelines along with increased prevention strategies are recommended as interim measures.