PVL S. aureus Decolonisation — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Correct answer: B — Use a coordinated short decolonisation course for affected people and household contacts after active lesions are treated, with environmental and linen measures with review with follow-up clinically-reassessed

The best answer is “Use a coordinated short decolonisation course for affected people and household contacts after active lesions are treated, with environmental and linen measures with review with follow-up clinically-reassessed”. Recurrent transmission can be maintained within households, so coordinated treatment and hygiene are more rational than prolonged systemic prophylaxis. “Give lifelong flucloxacillin prophylaxis to one index patient” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Decolonise only the person with the most recent abscess” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Use monthly intramuscular penicillin” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance. “Avoid household measures because PVL infection is never transmitted between close contacts” does not match the decisive clinical feature or cited guidance.

Reference: UKHSA PVL-producing Staphylococcus aureus guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pvl-staphylococcus-aureus-infections-diagnosis-and-management