Abstract
Objective: Colonization of Staphylococcus aureus in the nasal flora has been proven to play an important role in the transmission of infections. Health care workers carrying Staphylococcus aureus in their nose or skin play an important role in cross-contamination and thus result in Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) related hospital-acquired or community-acquired infections. Implementation of hand hygiene methods and standard precautions are helpful in reducing transmission and controlling spread. Screening for carriage of MRSA is fundamental step in nosocomial infection control. The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of MRSA carriage rate and study their antibiogram.
 Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of six months and samples from 185 HCWs working in high-risk areas were processed by standard protocols. As per CLSI guidelines, MRSA detection by disc diffusion method using Cefoxitin disc (30μg) and further determined by Epsilometer test (E-test) by interpreting Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values (mcg/ml).
 Results: Out of 185 nasal swabs, 53 were Staphylococcus aureus isolates. MRSA colonization is seen in (8.64%) samples. Preponderance was seen in staff nurses (10.16%). Antibiogram of MRSA isolates showed sensitivity to Vancomycin and linezolid.
 Conclusion: The present study was undertaken to screen nasal carriage of MRSA among healthcare workers, as they pose a potential risk factor for nosocomial transmission leading to MRSA outbreaks. The strengthening of Infection prevention and control measures institutionalization of antimicrobial stewardship programs helps in curbing the spread of MRSA.
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