Staphylococcus aureus Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile in Anyigba, North-Central Nigeria

Infections with Staphylococcus aureus, a versatile human pathogen have continued to raise concerns particularly in hospital setting resulting in high rates of morbidity and mortality. For proper and adequate infection control and treatment in our environment, it has become necessary to determine the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity profile of the organism. A total of 100 clinical specimens were collected from outpatients who visited hospitals in Anyigba. The samples were screened for Staphylococcus aureus by standard bacteriological procedures. Antibiotic sensitivity was determined by disc diffusion method. A total of 84 Staphylococcus aureus isolates were identified in this study. Females (61.9%) had a higher infection rate. Those within age group 0-10 years were most affected. Isolates were susceptible to Gentamicin (100%), Ofloxacin (81.8%), Ciprofloxacin (72.7%), Streptomycin (72.7%) and Erythromycin (63.6%). Eleven Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates were identified by disc diffusion technique using Oxacillin. Fifty four percent of the isolates were resistant to Erythromycin and Amoxicillin/Clavulanate respectively. The study highlights the need for periodic surveillance of MRSA for effective infection control.