Epidemiological Investigation Reveals Likely Infection During Procedure
Genetic Analysis Points to Single Source of Outbreak at Gangneung Clinic
An epidemiological investigation has found that the cluster of healthcare-associated infections at A Orthopedic Clinic in Gangneung is likely attributable to a single infection source.
According to Yonhap News on August 12, the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province held a press conference at the provincial government briefing room that morning, announcing, "As a result of our epidemiological investigation into the suspected healthcare-associated infection cases, five initial suspected patients and three samples collected during the on-site investigation were all found to have the same genotype."
Testing of 62 samples collected by the epidemiological investigation team, conducted by the Gangwon Institute of Health and Environment, detected methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) in 16 cases.
Based on these findings, Gangwon Province believes it is highly likely that the same infection source was transmitted to multiple patients within a confined environment. The province also suspects that the infections occurred during the procedure itself. The final results of the epidemiological investigation are expected to be released in two to three months.
Previously, on July 28, Gangwon Province launched an epidemiological investigation after a cluster of healthcare-associated infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus was reported among multiple patients who had received a pain relief procedure for back pain at A Orthopedic Clinic in Gangneung. Monitoring of 663 patients who underwent the same procedure in June and July confirmed that a total of 23 individuals were infected.
The clinic has been closed since August 1, following the health authorities' recommendation to suspend procedures. More detailed information on the infection route is expected once the results of the genetic analysis of Staphylococcus aureus are released later this week.
A Gangwon Province official stated, "We believe there is no risk of community transmission or spread, but we remain vigilant against the possibility of additional infection cases." The official also urged the public not to avoid or delay treatment out of unfounded fear, emphasizing that Staphylococcus aureus is commonly found on the skin of healthy individuals and thus poses a low risk of community transmission.
As of this date, 17 patients remain hospitalized, including five in intensive care, while five have been discharged. An investigation is ongoing into the infection and causality in the case of one deceased patient.
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