Multiply resist staphylococci are a major health concern worldwide. In
Europe, the prevalence of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) differs widely between countries in the south and those in the
north. In The Netherlands, which has one of the lowest rates of MRSA
infection in Europe, stringent infection control measures are in place
which include the isolation of all carriers and the treatment of pati
ents and staff carriers with mupirocin.