MRSA Screening
Screening for the presence of MRSA, specifically within the
health sector, is becoming increasingly frequent in an attempt to
prevent any further spread of the disease. In our
microbiology department we are able to analyse swab samples for the
presence of MRSA. Our four hour MRSA patient screening service can
help acute hospitals comply with new Department of Health
guidelines on infection control. The method in use at SHLS –
Staph SR – differs from other PCR screens as it picks up
Methicillin sensitive Staph aureus (MSSA) as well as MRSA. This has
the added benefit that the method can be used for assessment of
wounds, leading to rapid treatment.
The Problem
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MRSA kills approximately 5000 people per year
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Between October 2005 and March 2006, 3500 episodes of MRSA were
reported
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69% of MRSA infections occur in the elderly aged 65 or over
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25% of computer keyboards carry the MRSA bug