Analysis of epidemiological situation of MRSA infections in selected hospitals in the Czech Republic

Abstract number: 1134_02_208

Mackova B., Urbaskova P., Melter O.

Objectives:

Infections caused by MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) have been historically considered as hospital infections. Nevertheless, MRSA is becoming increasingly involved in community infections as well. The incidence of MRSA infections in the Czech Republic varies widely with the regions and population groups.

Methods:

Since 2000 the Czech Republic has been taking part in the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System monitoring the incidence of five pathogens in invasive isolates from blood and cerebrospinal fluid. One of the causative agents under surveillance is Staphylococcus aureus. The incidence of MRSA has been monitored in blood specimens from 95 hospitals of the Czech Republic. Data on patients, hospitals and phenotypes of antibiotic resistance in the bacterial strains isolated have been recorded. We used genetic methods for analysis of selected strains. Basic statistical methods are used for epidemiological analysis.

Results:

Between 2000–2003, 4144 Staphylococcus aureus strains were analysed. Out of these strains, 5.7% were MRSA (see Table). The incidence of MRSA varied with types of hospitals, hospital wards, age groups and time. Geographical distribution of MRSA strains in the Czech Republic was mapped. Thanks to collaboration of 47 laboratories, highly valid data covering 82 % of the Czech population have been available.

Conclusion:

Surveillance of MRSA strains as a basis for active antibiotic policy has become of increasing concern to both health care providers in hospitals and community general practitioners. There is a need for better awareness of MRSA infections among both health care professionals and the public. The incidence of MRSA infections in last years in the Czech Republic shows a slightly increasing trend. Very interesting is local distribution of MRSA strains. The development of the incidence of MRSA infections in their spread will be the subject of further study.