Signs of stigma and poor mental health among carriers of MRSA

Summary Background Many countries have implemented guidelines to prevent transmission of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In the context of MRSA important contextual factors of stigma can be identified. Over the past decade concerns have been raised over a possible stigmatizing effect of these actions. Aim To identify and quantify the occurrence of MRSA-associated stigma and to explore its association with mental health in a country with a MRSA ‘search and destroy’ policy. Methods In 2014 a questionnaire study among 57 Dutch MRSA-carriers (people that carry MRSA without signs of MRSA infection) was performed. Stigma was measured with an adjusted version of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale. Mental health was measured with the 5-item RAND Mental Health Inquiry. Findings 32 (56%) MRSA carriers reported stigma: 8 (14%) ‘clear stigma’ (Berger score >110) and 24 (42%) ‘suggestive for stigma’ (Berger score 76-110). Educational level, female gender and intensive MRSA eradication therapy were associated with higher stigma scores. Poor mental health (RAND score