Emergence of CA-MRSA USA300 in New York City
Author Information
Author(s): Simona Bratu, David Landman, Jyoti Gupta, Manoj Trehan, Monica Panwar, John Quale
Primary Institution: State University of New York – Downstate Medical Center
Hypothesis
Which populations are at high risk for the emergence of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) strains?
Conclusion
Urban regions of lower socioeconomic status and with evidence of overcrowding appear to be at higher risk for the emergence of the USA300 strain of CA-MRSA in New York City.
Supporting Evidence
- Of 1316 isolates collected, 581 were MRSA, with 217 susceptible to clindamycin.
- 125 isolates possessed SCCmec type IV, with 72 belonging to the USA300 strain.
- The eastern part of the city had the highest prevalence of the USA300 strain.
Takeaway
This study found that a type of bacteria called USA300 is spreading in certain neighborhoods of New York City, especially where people live in crowded conditions and have lower incomes.
Methodology
Isolates of S. aureus were collected from hospitals in Brooklyn over three months, with demographic data gathered and correlated with CA-MRSA prevalence.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in selection criteria for identifying USA300 strains.
Limitations
The study did not include the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The population in high prevalence regions was more likely to be Black, Hispanic, female, and under 18 years of age.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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