Coping with MRSA

The proportion of Staphylococcus aureus that is methicillin resistant has been rising in children. Active steps need to be taken to ensure that the problem of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) does not escalate. The clinical disease pattern ranges from long-term colonisation with MRSA to death, and can be affected by genes such as the Panton-Valentine-leukocidin gene. Antibiotic management varies from oral treatment with agents such as clindamycin to parenteral treatment. Newer antibiotics, such as linezolid, are being used and can be beneficial when vancomycin resistance is present. The judicious use of antibiotics is essential if multi-resistant strains of MRSA are not to become more prevalent. The availability of newer antibiotics, such as linezolid, provide challenges in avoiding overprescription (which can result in wider resistance) and should be used in conjunction with specialist microbiology or infectious diseases advice. Basic measures such as good handwashing technique and a clean hospital environment cannot be overemphasised.