'Superbug' resists treatment

Earlier this year, Xiao Bing was infected with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, better known as MSRA, a so-called superbug that renders commonly used antibiotics ineffective.

In May, doctors at the ear, nose and throat department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University diagnosed the 11-year-old from Fujian province, East China, with acute sinusitis. They prescribed a two-week course of Cephalosporin, a common treatment for the ailment, but Xiao's condition failed to improve and his symptoms, such as a runny nose and cough, remained severe.

At a loss, the physicians took samples of Xiao's nasal discharge, which tested positive for MRSA. In response, they prescribed Vancomycin, a strong antibiotic, and Xiao's symptoms abated after a week on the new medication.