Understanding the Molecular Epidemiology of Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Northern Saudi Arabia: A Spotlight on SCCmec and spa Typing

Abstract

Conclusion: Community-acquired MRSA clones are prevalent in the healthcare setting. The predominant genotype was t304 (10%), followed by t044 (7%) and t0127 (7%). The SCCmec IVd type was the most common type frequently associated with spa type t304, whereas SCCmec type IVc was primarily associated with spa type t044. Isolates harboring SCCmec type IVd showed more nonsusceptible phenotypes to ciprofloxacin than other SCCmec types. Most MRSA isolates were resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular epidemiology of MRSA in the northern region of Saudi Arabia and highlight the prevalence of specific MRSA strains and their antibiotic resistance profiles. This information is essential for monitoring and addressing the spread of MRSA in healthcare settings.