Decolonization after Recurrent Staph aureus or MRSA Infections or rashes

If you have recurrent Staph aureus infections, whether MRSA or regular Staph (MSSA), there is no perfect method to eliminate your risk, but here are steps you can take that may be helpful in lessening your risk of recurrence.

1. Rinse with 4% chlorhexidine (such as Hibiclens) during daily bathing or showering, making sure to avoid contact with your eyes and ears. You can also consider dilute bleach baths (see our website for details). If time does not permit this bathing, you can try CLN wash.

2. Gargle and then spit out 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash (specifically Peridex) twice daily. This can be prescribed for you by your dentist or us.

3. Use prescription 2% mupirocin twice daily into your nostrils. 

Do #’s 1, 2, and 3 for five days twice per month for six months.

4.  Wash your hands immediately with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer whenever they touch your wound/rash or anything that has had contact with it.

5.  Avoid sharing any items that may be contaminated, such as towels, clothing, bedding, bar soap, razors, and athletic equipment.

6.  Clothing that comes into contact with wound drainage or rash should be laundered, preferably on a hot cycle, and dried thoroughly.

7.  Environmental surfaces with which you and multiple individuals have bare skin contact should be cleaned with an OTC cleanser that is active against Staph aureus. Cross-transmission of Staph aureus between humans and pets has been described.

8.  Consider having family members and/or roommates tested with a bacterial culture. They will need to set up an appointment at our office.

9.  Consider having family or roommates do #’s 1, 2, and 3 and follow the rest of the guidelines, especially if Staph aureus is found upon them via culture.

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