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MRSA Study: Hospital Infection Rates Double Over Five Years

On Behalf of | Sep 11, 2012 | Medical Malpractice

New research from the University of Chicago suggests that hospital patients are at least twice as likely to suffer an infection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) than they were just a short time ago. The data shows that 21 of 1,000 patients suffered a hospital-acquired MRSA infection in 2003. Just five years later, that number doubled to 42 of every 1,000.

The new study was a surprise to many in the medical community, as another recent study concluded that MRSA infection rates at hospitals were declining. However, that Department of Defense study only analyzed the medical treatment of military personnel. The University of Chicago study examined patients who were treated at academic medical centers, such as university hospitals.

The key to preventing hospital-acquired MRSA infections is simple: More washing of the hands. However, treatment of patients who suffer MRSA infections is much more difficult.

The deadly bacteria cannot be effectively treated by antibiotics. Whether an infected patient survives a MRSA infection is largely determined by the strength of his or her immune system. Infants, seniors and those with autoimmune disorders are particularly vulnerable to the devastating impact of a MRSA infection.

If you or a loved one suffered a MRSA infection from a hospital, contact an experienced Detroit medical negligence attorney to discuss your rights to legal recourse.

McKeen & Associates, PC, is a Michigan-based law firm, but helps clients with complex medical malpractice cases throughout the nation. Our willingness to travel has allowed us to develop remarkable expertise in a variety of types of medical negligence. Contact us for a free consultation with one of our lawyers.

Source: Fox News, “MRSA Strikes More Hospital Patients, Study Finds,” Aug. 13, 2012

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