Many colonized individuals become silent carriers. Other sites include the groin, axilla, and gut, though these sites aren't as common. Typically, MRSA colonization is diagnosed by isolating bacteria from nasal secretions. To eradicate MRSA colonization in the nares, the physician may order topical mupirocin applied inside the nostrils. Other protocols involve combining a topical agent and an oral antibiotic.
Most institutions keep patients in isolation until surveillance cultures are negative.
To attack MRSA infection, vancomycin is the drug of choice. Some clinicians also add rifampin, but whether rifampin acts synergistically or antagonistically when given with vancomycin is controversial. Preventing the spread Whether you care for a patient with MRSA or VRE, you're responsible for containing the infection. Wash your hands before and after caring for any patient. Good hand washing is the most effective way to prevent VRE and MRSA from spreading.