Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus eradication in a burn center.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and its detection, virulence, and significance relative to morbidity, epidemics, and cost have been widely discussed in the literature. Although some experts recommend against attempting to eradicate the organism, our health center decided that under the circumstances this course should be pursued. This article describes the outbreak of Staphylococcus aureus, the rationale for pursuing its eradication, the measures successful in doing so, and the relative costs involved.