<![CDATA[Staphylococcus aureus commonly colonizes human skin and mucous membranes as a commensal organism, but under certain conditions, colonization may act as a precursor to infection. This study aims to analyze the patterns of Staphylococcus aureus colonization across various body sites in 43 preclinical medical students. Swab samples were collected from the oropharynx, nasal cavity, and hands, and Staphylococcus aureus was identified by culture. Additionally, the mobile phones (as potential fomites) of colonized participants were tested for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. Out of the 43 participants, 31 (72%) were found to have Staphylococcus aureus colonization, either in the nose, oropharynx, or hands. The colonization rates were 26% (11/43) in the nose, 63% (27/43) in the oropharynx, and 19% (8/43) on the hands. Among those with nasal colonization, 9 (82%) also had colonization at other sites, while 2 (18%) were exclusively colonized in the nose. Of the 27 with oropharyngeal colonization, 12 (44%) had colonization at additional sites, and 15 (56%) were colonized solely in the oropharynx. Of the 8 with hand colonization, 7 (89%) exhibited colonization in other body sites, while 1 (11%) had it only on the hands. Furthermore, of the 31 colonized participants, Staphylococcus aureus was detected on 3 (9.7%) of their mobile phones. This study underscores the high prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus colonization among preclinical medical students and the potential for bacterial detection on personal items such as mobile phones, highlighting the importance of personal hygiene education and infection prevention even among non-clinical populations.]]>
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