Prevention of Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in the NICU: A Novel Approach

Fewer infants became colonized with S. aureus when their parents were systematically decolonized at the time of NICU admission.

Nearly 4% of very-low-birth-weight infants (birth weight <1500 grams) are estimated to develop late-onset Staphylococcus aureus sepsis or meningitis during neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stays. In turn, these infections are associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and length of hospital stay.

In a randomized clinical trial from 2014 to 2018, infants aged <7 days and their parents were screened for colonization with S. aureus (both methicillin-sensitive [MSSA] and methicillin-resistant [MRSA]) at two NICU sites (one quaternary and one tertiary). Infants with negative screens, at least one parent positive for S. aureus, and at least 5 days of NICU hospitalization were randomized to undergo 5 days of decolonization with intranasal m…

Reviewing Author

Robin H. Steinhorn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardActelion Pharmaceuticals

Editorial BoardsJournal of Pediatrics

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Pediatric Society (President); American Board of Pediatrics (Board of Directors)

Robin H. Steinhorn, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardActelion Pharmaceuticals

Editorial BoardsJournal of Pediatrics

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Pediatric Society (President); American Board of Pediatrics (Board of Directors)

Prevention of Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in the NICU: A Novel Approach

Topics

Reviewing Author