Molecular investigation of a furunculosis outbreak at a penitentiary in southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND

The overcrowding of prison cells, combined with precarious and unsanitary conditions, is a critical factor for the health of inmates. This study carried out phenotypic and molecular characterization of the pathogen responsible for an outbreak of furunculosis in a penitentiary in southern Brazil.

METHODS

Samples were collected using sterile swabs from the furuncles, then subjected to biochemical identification, disk diffusion, and RAPD-PCR.

RESULTS

Biochemical tests identified Staphylococcus aureus as the etiological agent of this skin infection, while the RAPD-PCR technique revealed a common genetic profile among the affected individuals. All strains analyzed showed susceptibility to most of the antimicrobials evaluated, except penicillin.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the need for investment in prison facilities, efficient disinfection protocols, continuous monitoring, and equitable health treatment for growing inmates in Brazil's prison complex.