Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Nasal Cavity of Medical Students at Shendi University, Sudan

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming ever more prevalent in Sudan, and the proportion of MRSA to methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) seems to be increasing. New strains of MRSA are ever-developing resistance to antibiotic treatment, increasing morbidity and mortality rate.

Objectives: To detect the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the nasal cavity of medical students at Shendi University and to detect variations of MRSA Colonization between student smokers and non-smoker students.

Methodology: 60 swabs were collected from medical students of Shendi University, culture, and direct gram stain were done, then the plates were examined for any significant bacterial growth. The isolated bacteria were then identified by colonial morphology, indirect gram stain, and biochemical tests.

Results: All data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Of these, 66.7 % (40/60) were males. 33.3% (20/60) were females. The isolated organism was Staphylococcus aureus 24 (40%), with no growth 36 (60%). The study showed that the overall resistance of Staphylococcus aureus to Methicillin was 21 (35%) and 3 (5%) Sensitive to Methicillin. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus cases were found in nine (100%) of the students who smoked and twelve (80%) of the students who did not smoke. Of the pupils who did not smoke, three (20%) had Staphylococcus aureus. Methicillin Sensitive.

Conclusion: The carriage rate of S. aureus is consistent with similar studies. MRSA carriage in this university study appears high as compared to the general population. Although this study did not confirm a variety of risk factors for the carriage of MRSA previously identified by others, university healthcare personnel should be aware of the changing epidemiology of MRSA and the preventive measures needed to avoid outbreaks.