What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned you might be carrying Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, even without symptoms of infection. It's often used before surgery, in healthcare settings, or if you've had recurring skin infections and want to know if you're a carrier. It also checks whether the bacteria is a methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), which is harder to treat.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for the presence of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria from a swab sample, typically from the nose or another site. It matters because many people carry this bacteria without knowing it, and identifying carriers helps prevent spreading it to others, especially in shared living or medical settings. The test also identifies whether the strain is resistant to methicillin (MRSA), which affects how it should be managed.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account, with an explanation of what a positive or negative culture means. If the culture is positive, next steps usually include simple hygiene measures like frequent handwashing and, in some cases, decolonization steps to reduce spread to others; if MRSA is detected, it's a good idea to seek medical care promptly since it can be harder to treat. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time. If you're retested later, you can track your results over time using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people preparing for surgery, healthcare workers, athletes in close-contact sports, or anyone living with someone who has had a staph or MRSA infection. It's also useful if you've had repeated skin boils, abscesses, or infections that keep coming back. Screening helps catch silent carriers before the bacteria causes a problem or spreads to others.

How can I naturally support healthy skin and reduce staph risk?

Good hygiene habits go a long way: wash your hands regularly, shower after workouts, and keep cuts or scrapes clean and covered. Avoid sharing towels, razors, or personal items, and wash workout gear and bedding frequently in hot water. Keeping your skin barrier healthy with proper moisturizing can also help reduce the chances of bacteria getting in through cracked skin.

When will I get my results?

Results for this culture test are typically ready within about 7 days, since the lab needs time to grow and identify any bacteria present. You'll get a notification when your results are posted to your account, where you can view and download the full report.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Consider this test if you have recurring skin boils, abscesses, or infections that keep coming back despite treatment. Redness, swelling, or pus-filled bumps that spread to other people in your household are also a sign worth checking. Even without symptoms, if you've been in close contact with someone diagnosed with MRSA, screening can help catch a silent carrier state early.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means Staphylococcus aureus bacteria was found on your swab, which means you're a carrier — this doesn't automatically mean you're sick or infected. If the strain is identified as MRSA, it means the bacteria is resistant to common antibiotics like methicillin, so it needs more careful management if it ever causes an infection. Simple steps like improved hygiene and, if recommended, decolonization treatments can help clear carriage.

How often should I retest?

If you're a healthcare worker or in a high-risk setting, retesting every few months or after any known exposure is a reasonable approach. If you tested positive and completed decolonization steps, retesting a few weeks later can confirm whether the bacteria is gone. Otherwise, retest whenever you notice new symptoms or before a planned medical procedure that requires a clean screen.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your test comes back positive for Staphylococcus aureus, focus on hygiene measures like frequent handwashing, not sharing personal items, and keeping any skin infections covered. If the strain is MRSA or you develop worsening redness, fever, or spreading infection, seek medical care right away since this can require more targeted treatment. Retesting after following these steps can confirm whether the bacteria has cleared.

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.

Staph Aureus Screen - MRSA Carrier Culture Test

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]

Staph Aureus Screening Test (MRSA Culture Check)

Staphylococcus aureus Screen, Culture

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's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

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

Find a lab near you

Staph Aureus Screening Test (MRSA Culture Check)

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

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