Decolonization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus – effectiveness of decolonization treatment

Abstract

<p><b>Objectives:</b></p><p>The aim of this study was to describe the efficacy of decolonization treatments given in Hospital District of Southwest Finland (HDSWF) in 2007–2016 and to analyze the key elements for successful decolonization treatment. Duration of follow-up varied from 12 to 15 months.</p><p><b>Methods:</b></p><p>All new MRSA cases detected between 2007 and 2016 in HDSWF (population 475,000) and their MRSA follow-up screening results within 12–15 months were retrospectively analyzed. This study focused on the outpatient carriers having received decolonization treatment during the study period.</p><p><b>Results:</b></p><p>Of the 983 MRSA cases detected during 2007–2016, 117 carriers went through decolonization treatment. Of those successfully followed up, 72/92 (78.3%) were successfully decolonized. Multisite carriage was a risk factor for unsuccessful decolonization.</p><p><b>Conclusion:</b></p><p>Decolonization treatment, including nasal mupirocin, chlorhexidine containing skin washes and in selected cases, also systemic antibiotics, was effective in outpatient settings, resulting in long-term clearance of the MRSA carriage.</p>