Incidence of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in neonatal care unit of departmental hospital centre of Zou Collines in Benin

Meticillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is among the most important causes of nosocomial infections. It possesses a particular ability to spread in hospitals worldwide. Objective.-To analyze the proportion of MRSA among S. aureus isolated from specimen taken for diagnosis purposes. To make the medical staff aware of the problem of MRSA infections and to take a better care of patients. Patients and methods.-During 3 months, a prospective study was carried out in the neonatal unit of centre hospitalier departemental du Zou et Collines in Benin. We identified newborn carriers of SA, particularly MRSA and factors associated with the carriage. Two hundred and ninety patients were admitted in the 3 divisions of the neonatal unit. From 195 specimens examined for diagnosis purposes 48 h after hospitalization, 112 patients were detected by nose swabbing. Concurrently, swabbing of environment was achieved. Results.-Among patients' specimens, 141 isolations of S. aureus were observed. The proportion of MRSA was 36% amongst diagnostic specimens. MRSA represented 39% of the environment specimens. None of the isolated MRSA produces Panton Valentine leukocidin. Conclusion.-Our survey revealed a high level of MRSA among S. aureus isolated from diagnostic specimens. Consecutive to such findings and for decreasing nosocomial infection, an appropriate prevention program was installed, including intensive promotion of hands hygiene, correct sterilization and disinfection of materials and patients. (c) 2006 Elsevier Masson SAS.