Possible MRSA Outbreak at a Public Pool in Arizona

Three girls recently became infected with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureas (MRSA) in the small town of Safford, Arizona.  According to the news report in the Eastern Arizona Courier, all three had spent time at a local public pool frequented by area residents to escape the Arizona summer heat.

This is not the first time that MRSA has been linked with swimming activities.  Back in 2009, a researcher from the University of Washington presented results from an eye opeing study to the American Society for Microbiology Conference.  In the presentation it was reported that the dangerous Staphylococcus bacteria had been found for the first time at five public coastal beaches in the state of Washington.  The strains of the bacteria found were reported to be similar to the highly resistant strains commonly associated with hospital acquired infections.  Also in 2009, researchers from the University of Miami reported finding other types Staphylococcus bacteria in water samples in South Florida. 

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureas (MRSA) is a type of bacteria commonly associated with hospital acquired infections (HAIs).  In recent years it appears to have become increasingly spread outside of hospitals in many public places including schools and gyms. 

“MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to a number of commonly used antibiotics,” reported Ben Sublasky, National Director of Client Services for LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, a leading mold and IAQ testing laboratory.  “MRSA is known to survive on environmental surfaces for up to 2 weeks so proper hygiene and cleaning procedures are essential for keeping public places safe.  Environmental testing can also quickly identify when MRSA is present.”

EMSL Analytical and LA Testing have sponsored a public outreach video on MRSA:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kf1Zn3t-A5U

To learn more about mold or other IAQ testing services please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 303-0047. 

About LA Testing and EMSL Analytical, Inc.

LA Testing and EMSL Analytical are providers of environmental testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The companies have an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.