Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: An Update on Prevention and Control in Acute Care Settings

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of health-care-associated infections. Controversies regarding the effectiveness of various control strategies have contributed to varying approaches to MRSA control. However, new evidence from large-scale studies has emerged, particularly concerning screening and decolonization. Importantly, implementation and outcomes of control measures in practice are not only influenced by scientific evidence, but also economic, administrative, and political factors, as demonstrated by decreasing MRSA rates in a number of countries after concerted and coordinated efforts at a national level. Flexibility to adapt measures based on local epidemiology and resources is essential for successful MRSA control.

Keywords: Active surveillance cultures; Decolonization; Epidemiology; Infection control; Infection prevention; MRSA; Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus; Screening.