Prevalence and Susceptibility Patterns of Methicilin-Resistance Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) in Social Security Hospital Lahore

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major concern in healthcare settings around the world, with rising drug resistance hampering treatment options. This study investigates the epidemiology and antibiotic resistance profile of MRSA isolates from a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, and provides critical information for infection management and treatment decision-making. The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of MRSA among patients to assess the isolates drug susceptibility patterns and identify high-risk demographic groups afflicted by MRSA. A cross-sectional study was done over a six-month period. A total of 108 clinical specimens were collected and processed, including pus, blood, and wound swabs. The findings of this study shows that out of 108 samples, 80 (74%) were positive for MRSA, with females having a higher prevalence (55%). Pus samples were the most commonly used source (51%). Vancomycin (12%), linezolid (11.8%), and daptomycin (11.4%) were the most effective antibiotics, with penicillin and cefoxitin showing the most resistance. MRSA prevalence is disturbingly high at Social Security Hospital Lahore, especially among young people and women. Linezolid and vancomycin remain effective treatments. This study reveals a high prevalence of MRSA at Social Security Hospital, Lahore, mainly from skin and soft tissue infections. Despite trends by age and gender, no significant associations were found. MRSA showed resistance to beta-lactams but remained susceptible to Vancomycin, Linezolid, and Daptomycin. These findings emphasize the need for antibiotic stewardship, infection control, and improved resistance monitoring.