BackgroundMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of nosocomial infections and is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Nasal carriage is a key reservoir for transmission and an important target for infection prevention. Data on MRSA prevalence, risk factors, and Panton–Valentine leucocidin (PVL) associated virulence in Central Africa, particularly in Gabon, remain limited.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 636 patient