The epidemic of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization and infection in children: Implications for community and hospital practice

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Purcell, Kevin | Fergie, Jaime

Affiliations: Driscoll Children's Hospital, Corpus Christi, Texas, USA | Texas A&M University College of Medicine Temple, Texas, USA

Note: [] Correspondence: Kevin Purcell, M.D., Pharm. D., M.H.A., Healthcare Leaders 2B/Pediatric Research 4U, 13501 Camino De Plata Ct., Corpus Christi, TX 78418, USA. Tel.: +1 361 949 8178; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CAMRSA) colonization and infection has emerged as a serious health problem in children. The epidemic of CAMRSA as a cause of noninvasive and invasive infections has required a change in empiric antibiotic therapy to assure appropriate coverage. The control and prevention of CAMRSA infections is important, but there is very little evidence-based information to guide physicians providing care to children in the outpatient and inpatient settings.

Keywords: Methicillin-resistant, staphylococcus aureus, children

Journal: Journal of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 7-15, 2006