Prevalence of MRSA Isolates in Lithuania

Abstract

Untilrecently, MRSA was largely c onfined to the healthcare setting. Community outbreaks were noted and they were typically associated with defined risk factors such as intervenous drug use, recent hospital admission, or recent use of antibiotics. Community MRSA have now been reported in a number of studies in adults and children without known risk factors for MRSA. Although many studies suggest that MRSA is increasing in the community, the exact prevalence is unknown and may remain low among persons who have had no contact with the healthcare system. Risk factors for isolation of MRSA in hospitalized patients were also well defined and included prior exposure to antibiotics, recent surgery, and admission to an intensive care unit. Data about MRSA sutuation in Lithuania with focus on situation in Kaunas will be presented.