Accreditation

Potential for antibiotic-resistant infection outbreaks in athletes

Accreditation Connection, December 24, 2003

National school sports organizations joined the CDC in October to warn of the potential for outbreaks of an antibiotic-resistant skin infection among athletes.

Traditionally, outbreaks of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have been associated with health care facilities. But the CDC recently documented several cases of competitive athletes developing skin and soft tissue infections associated with MRSA in the last three years. Possible risk factors for infection include physical contact, skin damage such as cuts, and sharing of equipment or clothing. The CDC warned health care providers to be aware that skin and soft tissue infections occurring in these settings might be caused by MRSA, and issued guidance for athletes to prevent the spread of such infections.

Click here to read more about how to stop the spread of these infections. The cost is $10. Briefings on Infection Control subscribers have free access with their subscriptions.

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