Which is a risk factor for community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection?

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infections are associated with several risk factors, one of which is IV drug use. This is due to the fact that individuals who use intravenous drugs often have compromised skin integrity from repeated needle insertions, which can create entry points for bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, these individuals may also engage in behaviors that increase their risk of exposure to these pathogens, such as sharing needles or having unsanitary injection practices.

In contrast, while recent surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, and the use of dialysis devices are associated with healthcare-associated infections, they are not as directly linked to community-acquired cases of MRSA as IV drug abuse. Patients who undergo surgical procedures generally have healthcare-related risk factors rather than those typical of the community setting where CA-MRSA infections more often arise.