Decolonization of the index patient and of household contacts may be considered for patients with recurrent infections,20 and two recent trials have suggested strategies that may be effective. In one randomized trial, involving 183 children with at least one episode of a community-associated S. aureus skin abscess and colonization of the anterior nares, axillae, or inguinal folds, decolonization of the index patient alone was compared with additional decolonization of all household members; decolonization was performed with the use of a 5-day regimen of hygiene, nasal mupirocin treatment, and chlorhexidine body washes