Optimization of multiple muco-cutaneous site sampling method for screening MRSA colonization in ICU.

Aims: Active screening for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriers remains a vital component of infection control policy in any health-care setting. The relative advantage of multiple anatomical site screening for detecting MRSA carriers is well recognized. However, this leads to increase in financial and logistical load in a developing world scenario.

Evaluation of various methods for the detection of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains and susceptibility patterns.

Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been recognized as one of the major pathogens in hospital as well as community settings. In India, the mean isolation rate of MRSA is 20-40 % and many studies have suggested an escalating rate of infections caused by this organism. Despite pharmaceutical and technological advancement, infections caused by MRSA still remain difficult to diagnose.