The Niagara Health System has declared a unit outbreak of MRSA in the ICU/Progressive Care Unit at the St. Catharines General Hospital Site.
An outbreak is declared when the number of hospital-associated cases is higher than what is seen as the normal threshold. There have been five cases attributed to the unit since January 31. There are currently five of these cases remaining in the unit.
All infection prevention and control measures are in place to control the spread of the infection and bring the outbreak to an end as quickly as possible.
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.
Media contact:
Rebecca Slavik, Cell: 289-696-0504 Office: 905-378-4647, ext. 43879.
