Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus also known as MRSA, is caused by staphylococcus aureus bacteria (staph). Staph can be found in 1/3 of the population whether it be in the nose or on the skin. Just because one has “staph” on the skin or in the nose does not mean that they are sick. Staph can be colonized or dormant, but can still be passed on to other people. Normally staph infections can be harmless unless it enters the body through a cut or other open wound. An ordinary staph infection can lead to the more serious infection of MRSA. MRSA used to be only seen in hospital settings or long term care facilities; however, recently it has been found more often in the community, such as schools and in the workplace.
Signs and Symptoms
• Red bumps that resemble a pimple, spider bite or boil
• Pain
• Hot to touch
• Swelling
• Pus or other drainage
Risk Factors
• Young age
• Contact sports
• Sharing towels or athletic equipment
• Weakened immune system
• Living in crowded or unsanitary conditions
• Association with health care workers
• Overuse or abuse of antibiotics can make it harder to treat
Diagnosis
• See a Medical Doctor
• Culture will be done
Treatment
• Antibiotics
• Drain the abscess or infected area
• Have the infected area surgically cut out
Prevention
• Wash hands frequently
• Avoid sharing personal items
• Wash infected linen and clothes with hot water and soap
• Proper wound care: keep it clean, dry, and covered
• Clean equipment properly
Katelyn Mueller, ATC