Investigating how Staphylococcus aureus spreads in hospitals and communities

Staphylococcus aureus SPREAD (S. aureus Study of Prevalence Resistance and Environmental Dissemination)

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10869951

This study is looking at how often a common germ called Staphylococcus aureus is found in patients when they come to the hospital and how it spreads in healthcare settings, so we can better understand and prevent infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10869951 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the prevalence and resistance of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium that can cause serious infections. The study will involve testing patients for S. aureus colonization upon admission to the hospital and examining how the bacteria may spread through healthcare environments. Researchers will also analyze inanimate objects and healthcare workers to determine their role in the transmission of this bacterium. By using whole genome sequencing, the study aims to identify different strains and their interactions in both community and hospital settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients being admitted to the hospital who may be carriers of Staphylococcus aureus.

Not a fit: Patients who are not being admitted to the hospital or those who do not carry Staphylococcus aureus may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved infection control practices and reduced rates of Staphylococcus aureus infections in healthcare settings.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding bacterial transmission in healthcare settings, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Bacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.