Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in healthy Aucklanders

Background Studies have reported higher rates of diseases caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) amongst Maori and Pacific people, compared with people of other ethnicities. Aim We aimed to estimate the prevalence of nasal carriage and to explore demographic differences between S. aureus carriers and non-carriers in Auckland, New Zealand. Materials and Methods Nasal swab specimens were obtained from healthy population volunteers, who did not have recent healthcare contact. Each participant completed a short questionnaire. Results 78/424 (18%; 95% CI, 15-22) S. aureus carriers were identified. Female participants were less likely to be S. aureus carriers than males; but there were no differences in the ages or ethnic groups between S. aureus carriers and non-carriers. Socioeconomic deprivation, recent non-hospital healthcare contact and past history of S. aureus infection were not associated with S. aureus carriage. Conclusion Ethnic variation in the prevalence of S. aureus nasal carriage does not contribute to an increased risk of disease caused by S. aureus.