Guidelines (2008) for the prophylaxis and treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in the United Kingdom

Abstract

These evidence-based guidelines are an updated version of those published in 2006. They have been produced after a literature review of the treatment and prophylaxis of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The guidelines aim to complement those recently published for the antibiotic treatment of common and emerging community-onset MRSA infections in the UK. The guidelines have reviewed and updated, where appropriate, previous recommendations, taking into account any changes in the UK epidemiology of MRSA, ongoing national surveillance data and the value of new antistaphylococcal agents licensed for use in UK practice. Emerging therapies that have not been licensed for UK use are not reviewed, but their future potential role has been mentioned where deemed appropriate. Recommendations are given for the treatment of common infections caused by MRSA, elimination of MRSA from carriage sites and prophylaxis of surgical site infection.