Controlling Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: an Effective Alternative Approach

Abstract 

Over the last several years, an increasing number of hospitals have implemented a “search and destroy” strategy for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) based on the successful use of this approach in The Netherlands. However, the effectiveness of this strategy for reducing high endemic rates of MRSA remains unclear, the cost is high, and there are significant unintended consequences. Alternative methods to control MRSA should be attempted, and a successful approach targeted to reduce infections from all pathogens is outlined and recommended.