Prevention of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection among Asian/Pacific Islanders: a qualitative assessment.

BACKGROUND

Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) has been increasingly reported over the past decade, including in Asian/Pacific Islanders (A/PIs).

METHODS

We conducted ethnographic interviews in O'ahu and Kaua'i, Hawai'i, with 10 Asian/Pacific Islanders identified as having a history of CA-MRSA infections.

RESULTS

Most (7/10) thought skin infections were not a new problem in Hawai'i. Most (8/9) attempted to self-treat the infection prior to seeking medical care with a range of home remedies and store- bought solutions. Most respondents did not initially comprehend the severity of their infection and only sought medical treatment after concern from family, unbearable pain, and/or other symptoms of illness.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians should be aware of the reportedly frequent use of home remedies by this population, as it may potentially contribute to interactions when treatments are combined. If clinicians and public health professionals do not address perceptions and misperceptions of how MRSA is acquired, it will be very difficult to prevent infection, and may also delay individuals from seeking treatment.