Nearly five percent of all patients have acquired MRSA across U.S. healthcare facilities, as suggested by the researchers of the study.
The results indicate that a nationwide prevalence of the superbug is now 8 to 11 times greater than was originally thought.
It was found that there are at least 30,000 patients who could have the superbug at any time within the U.S. The study showed that 46 of every 1,000 patients have acquired the superbug. The research also includes those who have the colonization of the bug, but do not have the disease, which accounts for another 12 in every 1,000 people.
This comprehensive study, conducted by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology researchers, accounted for all types of healthcare facilities, including small community hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Besides hospitals and healthcare facilities, the superbug can be acquired in school locker rooms, gyms and at sports facilities, where the environment is favorable to MRSA infections.
The infection can be deadly, because it is so resistant to the methicillin antibiotic, but it can usually be treated favorably with other antibiotics. Most times it is seen in an outbreak of terrible skin infections, but it can also cause other illnesses, such as blood infections and pneumonia.
Diligent hygiene of healthcare workers is also essential to stop the spread of the disease.
The results of this study will be presented at the APIC's 34th Annual Conference in San Jose, California the week of June 25.
