Our StaphMRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) design draws attention to the increasingly serious issue of antibiotic resistance. Typically transmitted skin-to-skin, MRSA in its earliest form was primarily a “hospital-acquired” infection (HAI). However, it has now mutated into a “community-acquired” strain, characterized by excretion of a potent toxin which attacks the immune system and destroys tissues. It is important to note that resistant forms look the same as other bacteria except that they bear genes and products – as demonstrated in our design by the “glow” around the mutant strains - which protect them from antibiotics. Inspiration for this design was provided by APUA (Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics), an international organization dedicated to encouraging responsible use of antimicrobials and curbing antimicrobial resistance world wide. (www.apua.org). Microscopic images courtesy of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA. The name of the design is discreetly displayed on the border of the scarf (inconspicuous when worn.) Note: IA contributes a portion of proceeds to research, education or support associated with important non-profit public health agencies and organizations.
