Nasal Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Carriage and Related Risk Factors in a University Student Population

Introduction: Here, we aimed to analyze the risk factors of nasal methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriage in a sample pool comprising university students and characterize MRSA isolates' antibiotic resistance profiles. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to each participant and used as a data collection tool for obtaining demographic- and risk factor-related information. Each participant was also screened for S. aureus and MRSA nasal carriage. Associations between MRSA carriage and risk factors were evaluated with biostatistical methods. Bacterial isolates were isolated and identified with standard microbiological techniques. The antibiotic resistance phenotypes of the isolates were analyzed using the disk diffusion method in accordance with the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing guidelines. Results: The nasal MRSA carriage rate detected in our population was 11.3%. Having a skin infection in the past year (p=0.039) and working in a healthcare system during the previous year (p=0.018) were found to be significant risk factors associated with the nasal MRSA carriage of students. The antibiotic susceptibility test on MRSA isolates demonstrated high resistance rates to rifampicin, erythromycin, and kanamycin. Conclusion: The high rate (11.3%) of nasal MRSA carriage among university students is concerning. Thus, activities that aim to enhance knowledge and awareness among university students and administrators should be implemented to prevent possible transmission and outbreak scenarios.