ABSTRACT

Background: This study aimed (a) to provide information on methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and methicillin-susceptible (MSSA) Staphylococcus aureus colonization ratio in residents of nursing homes; (b) to determine the effect of hand-washing education given to nursing home residents and employees on nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus (NCSA) and (c) to obtain probable risk factors for MRSA colonization of residents in two nursing homes.

ABSTRACT

Background: Worldwide, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) rates have increased dramatically during the last decades. Sodium benzoate (SB) is a chemical substance that is used for preparing food and drinks and in the treatment of some metabolic (urea cycle disorders and hepatic coma) diseases. No studies were found which focussed on the effects of SB in MRSA infections. The aim was to determine in vitro activity of sodium benzoate against MRSA clinical isolates.