Pfizer Philippines supports World MRSA Day

MANILA, Philippines - Research-based pharmaceutical company Pfizer teams up with the Philippine Society of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (PSMID) in stepping up awareness, cure and prevention of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in the country.

Staphylococcus aureus, while commonly present in the nasal tracts and skin of adults, is the most dangerous of the many common staphylococcal bacteria. Strains of bacteria that are resistant to penicillin or beta-lactam antibiotics are called MRSA, and is one of the most commonly identified antibiotic-resistant pathogens in many parts of the world today.

Pfizer and PSMID will observe the local celebration of World MRSA Day tomorrow, highlighted by the sealing of an agreement between the two organizations in spearheading the Philippine MRSA Surveillance team.

They will also solidify their commitment to the cause against MRSA infections by unveiling the official logo for the Philippine MRSA Day, and by holding a lecture series on the disease. An initial awareness campaign will involve hospital teams distributing “Fight MRSA” baller ID bracelets, as well as key medical experts sharing information and expertise on the disease through articles to be published in newspapers through a strategic publicity campaign.

“MRSA, being an emerging health issue globally, is an important area of concern for us at Pfizer given our fundamental commitment to healthcare and to the improvement of the quality of lives,” says Patricia Pascual, Pfizer public affairs, communications, and market access director. “We are privileged to partner with PSMID in undertaking this advocacy in the Philippines.”

While most MRSA infections occur in individuals in hospitals or health-care settings due to the prevalent use of antibiotics and the emergence of resistant strains, even generally healthy people are now at risk of community-associated MRSA especially those in crowded living conditions. The disease is simply prevented through proper hygiene, starting with basic proper hand washing. Correct and effective antibiotic treatment is also extremely important.