Abstract

Introduction: Methicillin‑Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a major cause of both hospital‑acquired (HA‑MRSA) and community‑acquired infections (CA‑MRSA). Over the past two decades, the epidemiology of MRSA has shown a dynamic shift with increasing isolation of CA‑MRSA among otherwise healthy individuals. Regional data from Eastern Uttar Pradesh are limited. Objective: To determine the prevalence of MRSA among clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, to compare the epidemiological characteristics of HA‑MRSA and CA‑MRSA, and to study the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of MRSA isolates. Material and Methods: A cross‑sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, MLN Medical College, Prayagraj, from December 2023 to June 2025. A total of 2000 clinical samples including pus, wound swabs, blood, urine, sputum and body fluids were processed. Staphylococcus aureus isolates were identified by standard microbiological techniques. Methicillin resistance was detected using cefoxitin (30 µg) disc diffusion method as per CLSI guidelines. Results: Out of 2000 samples, 300 S. aureus isolates were obtained, of which 120 (40%) were MRSA. HA‑MRSA constituted 70% (84/120) of isolates, predominantly from intensive care units and surgical wards, while CA‑MRSA accounted for 30% (36/120), commonly associated with skin and soft tissue infections. High resistance was observed to fluoroquinolones, macrolides and aminoglycosides. All isolates remained uniformly sensitive to linezolid, vancomycin, teicoplanin and daptomycin. Conclusion: MRSA continues to be a significant public health concern in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Although HA‑MRSA remains predominant, the emergence of CA‑MRSA highlights the need for continuous surveillance, strict infection control practices and rational antimicrobial stewardship.