Patient Information Sheet: Staph Decolonisation Therapy
Understanding Staph Decolonisation Therapy:
Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph, is a bacteria that can live harmlessly on the skin and mucous membranes of healthy individuals. However, it can also cause infections, especially if it enters the body through cuts, wounds, or other breaks in the skin. Staph decolonisation therapy is a treatment aimed at reducing or eliminating the presence of staph bacteria on the skin to prevent infections.
Why is Staph Decolonisation Therapy Needed?
Decolonisation is generally recommended when individuals or their household contacts:
- have recurrent staphylococcal-like infections or have methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) – MRSA is a resistant form of the staph bacteria.
- are at increased risk of infection due to other existing medical conditions
- are healthcare workers or carers
If there are ongoing infections in a household despite treatment, decolonisation of all household members should be considered, even if some members do not have an active infection. All household members should commence decolonisation on the same day.
Decolonisation is not always successful on the first attempt, and may need to be repeated.
Decolonisation treatment regimen: 5 days
- Topical Antibacterial Body Wash: Chlorhexidine 4% wash (available at pharmacies) to the skin daily for 5 days. Apply from the neck down, leave on for 3-5 minutes before washing off. Moisturise well after to combat dry skin.
- Nasal Decolonisation: The nose is a common reservoir for staph bacteria. Apply intranasal mupirocin 2% ointment into the nostrils using a cotton bud two times a day for 5 days.
- Toothbrush and Dentures: Replace toothbrush. Dentures should be soaked overnight in a denture cleaning product such as Polident.
- Patients with known throat carriage: Gargle twice a day 0.2% chlorhexidine based mouthwash eg. Savacol or Rival, available at pharmacies.
- Laundry: Laundering clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and drying them thoroughly to eliminate staph bacteria.
General Measures for Staph Decolonisation:
- Good Hygiene Practices: Maintaining proper hygiene is essential for reducing the risk of staph colonisation and infection. This includes:
- Regular handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
- Keeping cuts, wounds, and skin lesions clean and covered until healed to prevent staph bacteria from entering the body.
- Avoiding sharing personal items such as towels, razors, and clothing, which can potentially transfer staph bacteria.
- Avoiding Skin Irritation: Minimising skin irritation and damage can help prevent staph colonisation and infection. This involves:
- Avoiding harsh soaps, detergents, and skincare products that may irritate the skin and disrupt its natural protective barrier.
- Using moisturisers to keep the skin hydrated and healthy, especially in individuals prone to dry or cracked skin.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining overall health and immunity can also play a role in preventing staph colonisation and infection. This includes:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support immune function.
- Getting regular exercise, adequate sleep, and managing stress levels to promote overall well-being.
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
Dr Anes Yang 