The Oropharynx as a Distinct Colonization Site for staphylococcus aureus in the Community

ABSTRACT 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.