MDR MRSA in Men Who Have Sex with Men

Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infections have become increasingly common during the past decade. Usually, the infections have been superficial, and the prevalent CA-MRSA strain (USA300) — although β-lactam–resistant — has been sensitive to many older antibiotics. In 2006, however, a multidrug-resistant (MDR) clone of USA300 was reported. To examine incidence of and risk factors for MDR USA300 infection, investigators used data gathered in 2004–2006 for earlier investigations (including clinic-based studies in San Francisco and Boston and a population-based survey of MRSA infections at 9 of the 10 medical centers serving San Francisco).

Based on a random sample of 532 residents with MRSA infections…