Panton-Valentine leukocidin-positive Staphylococcus aureus infections in returning travelersArchived
The authors present data on 15 individuals infected by Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) -producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Intra-familial spread was documented in one case, and occupational transmission was most likely in another case. spa typing of the strains revealed a broad range of variants, though some strains were clonally related. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was found in three cases.
Tappe D, Schulze MH, Oesterlein A, Turnwald D, Müller A, Vogel U, Stich A.Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2010 Oct;83(4):748-50.
Description: The authors present data on 15 individuals infected by Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) -producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Intra-familial spread was documented in one case, and occupational transmission was most likely in another case. spa typing of the strains revealed a broad range of variants, though some strains were clonally related. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was found in three cases.
Public health significance: Staphylococcus aureus may produce highly pathogenic toxins such as PVL. PVL-producing strains of Staphylococcus aureus are emerging as a cause of skin and soft tissue infection in European travellers returning from the tropics or North America. It is noteworthy that these strains may subsequently be transmitted by returning travellers to other members of their household.