RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was first detected in hospitals and one of the most common causes of nosocomial infections worldwide. There are reports that 50% of the infectious morbidity in intensive care units (ICUs) was due in part to MRSA. MRSA is also emerging in community. Community-associated MRSA is now the most common pathogen cultured from patients with skin and soft tissue infections in emergency departments. STUDY DESIGN: This study was conducted in otorhino-laryngology department of University of Benin Teaching Hospital, South-South region of Nigeria during the period July to September 2012. It was designed to provide baseline data on the emerging MRSA phenomena in surgical site infections. RESULTS: A total of one hundred and fifty nasal swabs were collected and processed using standard protocols. All the samples showed significant growth and ninety-six (64%) yielded Staphylococcus aureus. Forty-two percent of the S. aureus isolated were resistant to methicillin and all the isolates showed resistance to the various classes of antimicrobial agents tested with the least against the aminoglycosides. CONCLUSIONS: Our results provide baseline information to clinicians and healthcare workers on the implications of possible spread of multidrug resistant strains of the organisms.
RESUMO
Purpose: The aqueous fruit pulp extract of Hunteria umbellata K. Schum is used traditionally for the treatment of various fevers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extract for antipyretic and analgesic activity; and determine its probable mechanism of action. Methods: Pyrexia was induced in rabbits by intravenous injection of 105 CFU of E. coli/kg. Rectal temperature was monitored at 30; 60; and 90 min post-administration of 250 and 500 mg/kg of the extract. The analgesic effect of the extract was evaluated using acetic acid-induced mouse writhing test. The extract was tested for antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus; Klebsiella pnuemoniae; Escherichia coli; and Psuedomonas aeruginosa using agar diffusion method. Phytochemical screening of the plant extract was also carried out. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of simple sugars; saponins; flavonoids; alkaloids and steroidal compounds. The extract (250; 500 mg/kg) and aspirin produced comparable antipyretic effects up to 60 min. The extract did not inhibit the growth of the microorganisms but significantly reduced the number of writhes in mice at 250 and 500 mg/kg with results comparable to ASA. Conclusion: The extract possesses antipyretic and analgesic activities which validate its use in the treatment of pains and fevers
