Can mupirocin prevent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections?
In a retrospective study, Dr Muller and colleagues have assessed the efficacy of mupirocin nasal ointment alongside hygienic measures in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-positive patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Their findings, which suggest that intranasal mupirocin can prevent ICU-related MRSA infections, need confirmation in a well-designed clinical trial. In general: early identification, isolation and treatment of all MRSA carriers, including health care workers, and disinfection of contaminated environments, are the main 'ingredients' of an effective MRSA 'search and destroy' program.
Wertheim
Heiman F L
HF
Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. h.wertheim@erasmusmc.nl
Vos
Margreet C
MC
D000281:Administration, Intranasal; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D016106:Methicillin Resistance; D016712:Mupirocin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D016712:Mupirocin