Methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus skin infections among military conscripts undergoing basic training in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2014

Background

Skin and soft tissue infections are common among military conscripts undergoing close-contact training activities. On June 4, 2014, an outbreak of Staphylococcus aureus skin infection was reported among military conscripts undergoing basic training in Bangkok, Thailand. An investigation was performed to verify the outbreak and recommend future prevention and control strategies.

Case presentation

The outbreak resulted in a rate of infection of 19.2 % and a fatality rate of 2.5 % (one death). All were Thai men aged 21.2 ± 1.0 years. Risk factors associated with infection were multiple erythematous papules and training in certain subunits. Randomly selected isolates were evaluated by pulsed field gel electrophoresis to confirm the clonal identity.

Conclusions

This report confirms that S. aureus skin infection can be fatal. Our study highlights the role of military personnel in the early detection, prompt treatment, and containment of outbreaks of skin infection, as well as other health issues among conscripts.