MRSA Prevention and Control in County Correctional Facilities in Southwestern Ohio

Abstract

The number of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in correctional facilities around the country has been increasing. Considering the potential health impact of MRSA, it is important that correctional facilities have prevention and control protocols in place. The study results summarize the prevention and control preparedness activities of county jails in the Greater Dayton area of Ohio. Protocols and control measures were in place for environmental control (95.4%), MRSA screening (88.4%), standard precautions (84.3%), treatment (83.6%), personal hygiene (80.6%), and education (80.4%). Statistical analysis found no significant difference between rural and urban county jails in their handling of MRSA issues. The findings suggest significant compliance with MRSA prevention and control protocols among county jails in the Greater Dayton area.