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.

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doi.org/10.1186/cc3720, hdl.handle.net/1765/17743
Staphylococcus aureus: Resources
Critical Care
Erasmus MC: University Medical Center Rotterdam

Wertheim, H., & Vos, M. (2005). Can mupirocin prevent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections?. Critical Care, 9(3), 257–258. doi:10.1186/cc3720