Epidemiology of Methicillin-resistant and Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infections in Lebanon

Background. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a prevalent pathogen associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In Lebanon, MRSA rates have recently started to rise. We aimed to determine risk factors for acquiring MRSA and Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infections and identify independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality among patients with S. aureus infection. Methods. We used a case-case-control study design that included patients with infections and compared them to uninfected controls. Two multivariable regression models were constructed to determine variables associated with acquiring MRSA and MSSA infections. We explored independent predictors of mortality in the overall population compared with the MRSA subgroup. Results. 356 patients with S. aureus infections were identified and compared to 208 uninfected controls. A recent history of surgery and underlying diabetes were independent risk factors for acquiring both infections. Having a urinary catheter for more than 6 days and steroid therapy were unique risk factors for MRSA infection (aOR 28.1, 95% CI 3.5-223.6 and 3.7, 95% CI 1.6-8.7, respectively). Risk factors exclusively associated with MRSA infection included ICU admission, acute renal failure, and malignancy. Conclusions. Risk factors associated with MRSA infection are distinct from those associated with MSSA infection. This can be used to risk stratify patients and will aid in choosing empirical antibiotic therapy

Practice and attitudes towards immunization among Lebanese obstetricians and gynecologists

We designed our study to evaluate the knowledge and immunization practices among Lebanese obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYN) for women of different age groups. Anonymous questionnaires were used to assess the knowledge and immunization practices among OBGYN. The survey was conducted at the annual meeting of the Lebanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology on November 13–15, 2014. Data collected included demographics, type of practice, academic background and familiarity with vaccine guidelines. Descriptive statistical methods were used to evaluate the responses. The response rate was 54.8% (114/208). Only 62.3% (71/114) recommend vaccination(s) to pregnant women with only 25.9% of those who recommend the Tdap vaccine for pregnant women giving it during the recommended third trimester. In addition, 52.6% are unaware of the CDC/ACIP immunization schedule for women in general. However, 83.0% (93/112) of respondents are willing to integrate vaccination in their practice. Our study highlights several gaps in the knowledge of Lebanese OBGYN regarding vaccination in addition to practices that are not in full accordance with common guidelines. Measures should be taken to spread proper awareness of the proper guidelines among Lebanese practitioners