Emergence of MRSA in the Community

Antimicrobial-resistant variants of S. aureus have been known to cause human disease for decades, primarily in healthcare settings. However, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections emerged in the community in the United States during the late 1990s–early 2000s. Community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) infections are often caused by unique strain types that produce characteristic clinical manifestations. Although new antimicrobials are available, it is unclear how they should be used in the treatment of CA-MRSA. Preventing MRSA infections in the community requires engagement of public health officials, clinical providers, patients, and community members. The epidemiology of community-associated MRSA continues to evolve, and continued monitoring of MRSA to assess for new developments and novel strategies for prevention will be critical in the upcoming years.