The Oropharynx As A Distinct Colonization Site For Staphylococcus aureus In The Community

Background: S. aureus is a frequent cause of hospital and community associated infections and colonization is known to increase the risk of infection, with the nares considered the most important colonization site. Methods: We compared the prevalence of nasal and oropharyngeal carriage in a yearlong, prospective cohort study of people from the community as well as assessed risk factors for nares- only and oropharynx-only colonization. Results: Colonization at both anatomical sites was correlated; however, oropharynx only carriage occurred and oropharyngeal swabs were more sensitive than nasal swabs at detecting carriage (77.27% and 72.725 respectively). Non-Caucasian race, having a greater number of people living in your home and more children in your home all significantly increased the odds of oropharynx- only carriage. Having S. aureus present on home environmental sites, exercising in a fitness center, and sharing bath towels all increased the odds of nares-only carriage. Conclusions: Oropharyngeal swabs increase the detection of S. aureus colonization in community embers.