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Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

MRSA is a bacterial infection, often referred to as a staph infection. This type of staph infection is resistant to common antibiotics.

Staph infections of the skin can appear as pimples, boils, and lesions. They may be red, swollen, painful and filled with pus or fluid.

Staph infections including MRSA occur most frequently among patients in hospitals and other healthcare facilities who have weakened immune systems.

MRSA is most common when the 5 C's are present:

• Crowded Conditions
• Contact with Others (direct skin to skin)
• Compromised Skin (cuts and open wounds)
• Contaminated Surfaces
• Lack of Cleanliness

Even though MRSA is resistant to some antibiotics, it can be treated with others. Left untreated staph infections can lead to bacteremia, pneumonia, and even death.

Prevention:

• Wash and sanitize hands often
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered
• Do not touch other people's cuts or bandages
• Do not share personal items like towels and razors