Nasal Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among staff and Students of University of Sciences and Technology, Aden-Yemen

Abstract

Background: Colonization of human nose by Staphylococcus aureus represent up to 30% of the human population. S. aureus must defeats the host’s defense mechanisms in order to colonize the nasal epithelial cells of human. Some factors such as bacterial interaction in human nose can prevent such colonization.Aim: The aim of current study was to determine the prevalence of nasal colonization by S. aureus among the staff and students of University of Science & Technology, Aden; as well as the associated risk factors for nasal carriage.Subjects and Methods: The type of study was an institution-based cross-sectional study which performed during the period from January to March 2020. The total samples were 1030 nasal swabs obtained from all the staff and students, the specimens were transported to the laboratory and the swabs were processed within 4 hrs. of collection.Results: The mean age of the study sample was 21.4 (±5.8 SD). The prevalence S. aureus isolated from nasal carriages was 31%. S. aureus nasal carriage show high frequency among age group 27-36 (32.4%) followed by those at age of 17-26 years (31%), however, there was no a statistically significant association in relation to the age groups (P=0.9). Regarding gender, it was considered a risk factor. S. aureus more common in male than female. The pattern of sleep, smoking, and frequent touching the nose were statistically associated with the S. aureus nasal colonization. Those who had nasal sensitivity was considered risk factor (RR=1.3) but with non-significant association with S. aureus nasal colonization (P=0.4).Conclusion: The current study revealed that community acquired was the potential colonizers of S. aureus. With the prevalence of 31% of the study sample, age, gender, and smoking, and other were potential risks. Regular screening of carriers is required for prevention of community acquired infections.