Snapshot Prevalence and Characterization of Staphylococcus species, including MRSA, in a Student Athletic Facility: An Undergraduate Research Project

Stephen A. Garcia; Jacella F. McKenzie; Thomas Patterson; Rodney E. Rohde

doi:10.29074/ascls.25.3.156

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Stephen A. Garcia, BSCLS, MLS (ASCP)^CM
1. College of Health Professions, Clinical Laboratory Science Program Texas State University, San Marcos, TX
Jacella F. McKenzie, BSCLS, MLS (ASCP)^CM
1. College of Health Professions, Clinical Laboratory Science Program Texas State University, San Marcos, TX
Thomas Patterson, MS, MT(ASCP)
1. College of Health Professions, Clinical Laboratory Science Program Texas State University, San Marcos, TX
Rodney E. Rohde, PhD, MS, SV, SM(ASCP)^CMMB^CM⇑
1. College of Health Professions, Clinical Laboratory Science Program, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX

Address for Correspondence: Rodney E. Rohde, PhD, MS, SV, SM(ASCP)^CMMB^CM, Associate Dean of Research & Associate Professor, College of Health Professions, Texas State University, Clinical Laboratory Science, HPB 361, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666-4616, 512-245-2562, rrohde{at}txstate.edu

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and characterize the prevalence of MRSA, Staphylococcus aureus, and other Staphylococcus species found on exercise equipment on one day point of collection.

DESIGN: A cross sectional, point prevalence design (pilot study) with a single time of measurement. Data collected in summer of 2011 (Undergraduate Research Project for CLS Program, CLS 4361 Clinical Research). Project received Institutional Review Board exemption.

SETTING: In a higher education athletic facility in Texas.

SAMPLES: One hundred twenty-five environmental samples were collected from various exercise equipment and areas within the facility.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Samples were screened for Staphylococcus species using standard microbiological techniques. Confirmation of S. aureus was conducted by DRYSPOT Staphytect Plus™. MRSA isolates were confirmed with CHROMagar™; VITEK® 2 antibiotic susceptibility testing and PFGE characterized all MRSA isolates.

RESULTS: Prevalence of MRSA was 6%, S. aureus 38%, other Staphylococcus species 52% and no growth 4%. Prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA was highest on free weights and mats, respectively. PFGE characterized all MRSA isolates as HA-MRSA (USA100 strain).

CONCLUSIONS: Although limitations exist for this study with a single time of measurement for data, the findings indicate potential exposure risks from Staphylococcus species in college athletic facilities. Compliance (disinfection) and creative health education may reduce transmission of pathogens, environmental load, and incidence of colonization or infection in students.

ABBREVIATIONS: CA-MRSA - Community-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus; CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science; HAIs - Healthcare associated infections; HA-MRSA - Healthcare-associated methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus; MDRO - Multiple Drug Resistant Organisms; MRSA - Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.