OBJECTIVES

Methicillin-resistant (MRSA) remains a significant public health concern, associated with high morbidity, increased healthcare costs, and limited treatment options due to antimicrobial resistance. Monitoring MRSA trends is essential to support effective infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare settings.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed clinical specimens tested for between January 2022 and December 2024 at a regional hospital in central Taiwan. Monthly and annual MRSA prevalence rates were calculated as the proportion of MRSA-positive isolates. A chi-square test of independence was used to assess the statistical significance of prevalence differences across years.

RESULTS

A total of 1,824 isolates were identified during the study period, including 287 MRSA cases in 2022 (48.9%), 281 in 2023 (42.3%), and 278 in 2024 (48.5%). The chi-square test revealed a statistically significant difference in annual MRSA prevalence (χ² = 6.94, = 0.031), indicating a meaningful variation in resistance patterns across years.

CONCLUSION

MRSA prevalence fluctuated over the 3-year period, with a temporary decline in 2023 followed by a rebound in 2024. These findings underscore the importance of continuous surveillance and adaptable infection control strategies to address evolving antimicrobial resistance in hospital environments.