Successful control of an outbreak of Panton–Valentine leucocidin positive meticillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a National Burns Unit through early detection by whole genome sequencing

Abstract

We report an outbreak of PVL-producing MRSA in the Irish National Burns Unit in 2022 involving seven patients, two staff members and two positive environmental samples. This outbreak was successfully controlled using a range of measures including staff screening, environmental screening and enhanced cleaning. The use of real time whole genome sequencing (WGS) allowed for rapid identification of relatedness and for a rapid outbreak response. We share our successful approach to control this outbreak.