Clumps of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus – Credit CDC PHIL
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Although we haven’t seen any official updates since late yesterday afternoon, reports have been trickling in through various media outlets suggesting that the fatal flu cluster in Lusby, Md. involved the seasonal H3N2 virus and an aggressive form of MRSA pneumonia.
Lisa Schnirring of CIDRAP News brings us up to date this evening with this report. Follow the link to read her report in its entirety.
MRSA pneumonia suspected in fatal flu cluster
Lisa Schnirring
Staff Writer
Mar 8, 2012 (CIDRAP News) – Another family member linked to a fatal flu cluster in Calvert County, Md., has been hospitalized, as suspicion grew that an aggressive drug-resistant form of pneumonia may have played a role in the severe illnesses, according to media reports.
Maryland and Calvert County health officials didn't report any new details about the cases, but the Washington Post reported yesterday that the sister of the 81-year-old woman who died has been hospitalized at MedStar Washington Hospital Center with fever but no other flu symptoms.
Tissues taken during autopsies from two of the victims have reportedly been sent to the CDC for further analysis, which can take a day or two to complete.
