What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about carrying MRSA, a type of staph bacteria that resists many common antibiotics. It's often used before hospital stays, surgeries, or other medical procedures to check if you're colonized with MRSA in your nose, even if you have no symptoms. Healthcare workers and people in close contact with hospitals or nursing homes often use this test to protect themselves and others.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative result means. If your result is positive, simple next steps include following decolonization steps like using prescribed nasal treatments and antibacterial washes, and retesting afterward to confirm the bacteria is cleared. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and if you get tested again in the future, you'll be able to track your results over time using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone getting ready for surgery or a hospital admission, since many facilities require MRSA screening beforehand. It's also useful for healthcare workers, athletes in close-contact sports, people living in shared facilities like dorms or nursing homes, and anyone who has had recurring skin infections. If you've been in close contact with someone diagnosed with MRSA, this test can tell you if you're carrying it too.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

MRSA colonization in the nose usually causes no symptoms at all, which is why screening matters even if you feel fine. However, if you have recurring skin infections that look like pimples or boils, red and swollen areas that are warm to the touch, or wounds that aren't healing well, it's worth checking for MRSA. People who keep getting skin infections in their household or team are also good candidates.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days from when your sample is processed at the lab. Because this is a PCR test, it uses a fast, direct genetic detection method rather than a slower culture-based approach, which helps keep turnaround time short. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are available in your account.

How can I naturally support a healthy microbiome and lower MRSA risk?

While a positive MRSA result usually needs specific decolonization steps rather than natural remedies, you can lower your overall risk by washing your hands frequently and keeping cuts or scrapes clean and covered. Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or athletic gear, and shower promptly after contact sports or gym sessions. Keeping your skin healthy and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use also helps your body's natural bacteria stay balanced.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means MRSA bacteria were found in your nose, which means you're colonized even if you're not sick. This isn't the same as having an active infection, but it does mean you can spread the bacteria to others or develop an infection if your skin is broken. Following a decolonization routine, such as antibacterial nasal treatments and body washes, and then retesting can help clear the colonization.

What causes MRSA colonization?

MRSA spreads through skin-to-skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces, towels, or equipment, then touching your nose or a break in your skin. Crowded living spaces, frequent antibiotic use, and close-contact activities like team sports or wrestling all raise your risk. Spending time in hospitals or long-term care facilities is another common way people pick up MRSA.

How often should I retest?

If you test positive and complete a decolonization routine, it's common to retest a few weeks later to confirm the bacteria is gone. If you work in healthcare or a high-exposure environment, periodic screening every few months can help catch new colonization early. Otherwise, retesting is mainly recommended before surgery, hospital admission, or if new symptoms appear.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, the report will explain simple decolonization steps, which often include a prescribed nasal ointment and special antibacterial body wash for several days. Keep any cuts or skin irritation clean and covered during this time, and avoid sharing personal items with others. If you develop signs of an active infection, like spreading redness, fever, or worsening pain, seek medical care right away.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

MRSA PCR Test - Rapid Nasal Colonization Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

MRSA Nasal Screening Test (PCR)

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, PCR

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What happens after I get my results?

Who should consider this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Find a lab near you

MRSA Nasal Screening Test (PCR)

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say