Prevalence of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Nasal carrier in Health Care Workers.

ABSTRACT

Methicillin resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important nosocomial pathogen that causes severe morbidity and mortality worldwide. In recent years, nosocomial outbreaks of methicillin resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a major infection control problem. Colonized employees are generally asymptomatic; they are a potential reservoir and disseminator of MRSA in hospitals. Nasal screening of health care workers (HCW) for MRSA is performed routinely in several countries, typically when more than one MRSA – colonized patient is identified in high risk ward, such as intensive care unit (ICU). This study was performed at PSG Hospitals to assess the prevalence of MRSA nasal colonization in health care workers and their sensitivity pattern. The prevalence of MRSA carriage among HCW’s was quite low (3.3%) in our institution. It has been recommended that, in case of epidemic in the hospital, all health care workers should be examined for MRSA colonization.