Occupational MRSA infection: Risk factor, disposition, prevention, and therapy

Abstract

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important cause of healthcareassociated infections. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are regularly exposed to MRSA at work and, thus, at higher risk for MRSA colonization than the general population. Colonized HCWs are usually asymptomatic but may rarely develop an infection by their own MRSA carriage strains. Work-related hand eczema is common among HCWs because of the necessity for wearing of occlusive gloves and frequent hand hygiene procedures during patient care. The associated skin barrier impairment may increase the risk for MRSA acquisition which is even more enhanced in those suffering from atopic dermatitis. Apart from healthcare, animal farming and meat production have become other occupational sectors with increasing exposure to MRSA and colonization of the involved workforce. Thischapter will highlight the significance of occupational MRSA colonization and infection, its predisposition and inoculation, prevention, and current treatment modalities. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.