Basics about Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus, or "Staph," bacteria that is not killed by most antibiotics. Staph found on the skin or in the nose can lead to serious wound and blood infections, as well as pneumonia. Staph can be passed through casual contact from person to person or through contaminated objects. Staph infections due to MRSA are especially difficult to treat, so it is very important to take steps to prevent infection. You can prevent MRSA infections by:

1. Practicing good hand hygiene
2. Washing with soap and water
3. Making sure your healthcare team washes their hands before checking you
4. Covering any open wounds
5. Not sharing personal items
6. Keeping a clean environment

Staph skin infections cause red, swollen and painful areas on the skin along with other symptoms such as pus or other fluids coming from the site, fever and warmth around the area. Serious staph infection symptoms are chest pain, cough, fatigue, fever and chills. Treatment for a local skin infection may be to drain the skin sore while serious infections may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Questions to Consider Asking Your Doctor

• How can I get a MRSA infection?
• How is MRSA treated?
• What should I do to prevent MRSA infections?

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