Panton-Valentine Leukocidin–Positive CC398 MRSA in Urban Clinical Settings, the Netherlands

Abstract

We report detection of Panton-Valentine leukocidin–positive clonal complex 398 human-origin methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus L2 in the Netherlands. This hypervirulent lineage originated in the Asia-Pacific Region and could become community-acquired in Europe after recurrent travel-related introductions. Genomic surveillance enables early detection to guide control measures and help limit spread of pathogens in urban settings.

Keywords

• Staphylococcus aureus
• MRSA and other staphylococci
• antimicrobial resistance
• Panton-Valentine leukocidin
• healthcare-associated infections
• the Netherlands