Skin infections are becoming drug resistant

Scientists have found out that Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is affecting people who before had no established risk factors for the condition. After interviewing patients with MRSA infections, and reviewing their medical records, scientists are of the opinion that these infections are acquired from the community. The rate of being affected by the disease is significantly higher for children below two years old than among those who are two years and older. Race is also a factor as the results showed more people of the black community being affected than white community.

Most of the cases were on the skin and soft tissue, however 6% cases were invasive in nature. All the cases had showed marked tendency of not resisting treatment of anti-microbial agents. 23% of the cases till date had required hospitalization.

Community associated MRSA is becoming a major problem and requires more study as it is seen to affect the children more than the adults. One of the results of this infection may be the life threatening condition of Necrotizing fasciitis. Adults who had suffered from MRSA infection as a child are at a high risk for this rapidly spreading inflammatory subcutaneous skin infection that may be life threatening and needs immediate surgery.

Reference: New England Journal of Medicine, April 2005