Primary prevention

Staphylococcal and MRSA infections are usually spread by contact with another person's infected skin or with personal items that have touched their infected skin, such as towels, bandages, or razors. Environmental control of MRSA includes the use of proper disinfectants and cleaning agents. CDC: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Opens in new window​ Wounds should be covered with an appropriate barrier. Hand hygiene is paramount in preventing spread of MRSA to others.

Secondary prevention

The household environment may play an important role in MRSA transmission.[60] Patient education is important to prevent the spread of community-associated MRSA infection to other people. Preventative measures include: CDC: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Opens in new window

  • Washing hands

  • Bathing regularly

  • Avoiding shared items that may be contaminated, such as towels and razors

  • Keeping all wounds clean and covered

  • Adequately cleaning any shared equipment, such as those at gyms and spas.[3]

Infection control measures to prevent transmission of MRSA in hospitals and other long-term care facilities include:[61][62]​​

  • Proper hand hygiene (for both healthcare personnel and patients)[63]

  • Barrier precautions (gowns and gloves)

  • Appropriate handling of laundry

  • Contact isolation precautions for MRSA-colonised and MRSA-infected patients in single-patient rooms, if available[3]

  • Cleaning and disinfection of equipment and the environment

  • MRSA monitoring programme to identify patients with a current or prior history of MRSA and track hospital-acquired infections.

Decolonisation regimens have also been used. These have included topical and systemic antibiotics, as well as antiseptic body washes.[50] In one study, of hospitalised patients colonised with MRSA, post-discharge decolonisation and hygiene education had a significantly reduced risk of developing MRSA infection than patients who received hygiene education alone.[64] Decolonisation of surgical patients with an antistaphylococcal agent in the pre-operative setting is recommended in US guidelines, particularly for orthopaedic and cardiothoracic procedures.[65]

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