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Changes in the prevalence of nasal colonization with Staphylococcus aureus in the United States, 2001-2004

Rachel J Gorwitz1, Deanna Kruszon-Moran, Sigrid K McAllister

  • 1National Center for Preparedness, Detection, and Control of Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. rgorwitz@cdc.gov

The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|April 22, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Nasal colonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) increased in the US, despite a decrease in overall S. aureus. Community-associated MRSA strains partially explain this rise.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent cause of infection, particularly in colonized individuals.
  • Virulent strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) have emerged in community settings.
  • Understanding S. aureus and MRSA nasal colonization trends is crucial for public health strategies.

Discussion:

  • The study analyzed national survey data from 2001-2004 to assess S. aureus and MRSA nasal colonization.
  • MRSA isolates were identified, and their pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) types were determined.
  • Statistical methods compared colonization prevalence and identified associated risk factors.

Key Insights:

  • Overall S. aureus nasal colonization decreased from 32.4% to 28.6% between 2001-2004.
  • MRSA nasal colonization prevalence significantly increased from 0.8% to 1.5%.
  • MRSA colonization was linked to healthcare exposure in males and specific demographics in females (US-born, age >60, diabetes, poverty).

Outlook:

  • Community-associated PFGE types accounted for only a portion of the MRSA increase.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the drivers of increasing MRSA nasal colonization.
  • Continued surveillance is essential to monitor and manage MRSA prevalence.

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