MRSA

What is this MRSA that I am hearing so much about?
They call it the Super Bug.  Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus is a strain of the Staph bacteria that can cause painful skin infections, bloodstream infections and pneumonia. It is sometimes fatal. It is resistant to many antibiotics. MRSA is prevalent in public places such as hospitals, schools, jails and daycares.
 
How do I get MRSA?
MRSA is spread by touch.  It is easily contracted by those with open skin wounds, even as slight as a razor nick while shaving.

What does MRSA look like?
MRSA can look like a pimple, boil or is often thought to be a “spider bite.”  It is often red, swollen, and painful with pus or other drainage. You cannot look at the site and tell if it is MRSA.  The area must be cultured to determine whether it is MRSA or not.
 
Why haven’t I heard much about this until now?
Historically MRSA was only found in hospitals or nursing homes.  In the past 10 years, this bug has moved out of these facilities to our communities.  Many years of overuse and misuse of antibiotics has contributed to the mutation of these Staph bacteria.  Also, a decreased development of new antibiotics has allowed the bug to become resistant to current antibiotics.

 How do I prevent MRSA in my home?
• Always use soap when washing hands.

• Don’t share towels, razors, or other personal items.

• Wash clothing and bedding in hot washer and dryer.

• Use portable alcohol hand-rub products throughout the day.

• Clean all scrapes and abrasions thoroughly and keep covered with a clean, dry bandage until healed.

• Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages.

• Wipe surfaces with an antibacterial product before and after use.

• Do not “pop” a pimple or abscessed area as this can spread the bacteria.

Is MRSA only treated with IV medications?
No.  Most infections of MRSA can be treated orally (by mouth) and with topical (on the skin) ointments when identified early.  IV therapy is used when these attempts are not successful. 

How do I know for sure what to do?
Contact your personal physician or county health department.  Utilize the expertise of your local school nurse.  They will guide in the proper steps to take for your skin infection.