An outbreak of MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) in the 4th floor surgical unit at the Welland Hospital Site has been declared over today.
An outbreak is declared when the number of hospital-associated cases is higher than what is seen as the normal threshold. There were a total of seven cases associated with the outbreak.
The MRSA outbreak was declared on Thursday, September 13, 2012. Increased infection prevention and control measures were put in place immediately to help control the spread of MRSA and bring the outbreak to an end quickly.
All infection prevention and control measures will remain in place.
About MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)
Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that lives on the skin and mucous membranes of healthy people. Occasionally S. aureus can cause an infection. When S. aureus develops resistance to certain antibiotics, it is called Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, or MRSA. MRSA is spread from one person to another by contact, usually on the hands.
