West Virginia Department of Health
and Human Resources
Information for the Public:
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
What is Staphylococcus aureus?
Staphylococcus aureus, or "staph" is a
bacteria that lives on the skin or in the nose of healthy people.
Occasionally, staph can cause infections of the skin, bloodstream, lungs,
bones, joints, heart, or almost any part of the body.
What is methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA)?
MRSA is a type of staph that has become resistant to
the antibiotics that are commonly used to treat staph. This means that an
infection with MRSA is more difficult to treat.
Where are staph and MRSA found?
Staph and MRSA may be found on the skin or in the
nose. About 30 to 50% of people may carry the staph bacteria on their skin
without getting ill.
What is the difference between colonization and
infection?
Colonization means that bacteria is carried on the
skin, but is not causing disease. Infection means that bacteria has
invaded the body and is causing illness.
Who is most at risk for staph infections?
While anyone can get an infection with staph,
certain persons are more at risk. These people include diabetics, people
on dialysis, persons who use injection drugs, people who have recently had
surgery, and persons with chronic diseases such as cancer. Staph
infections are also more common in persons who have a tube going into
their body (such as a urinary catheter or intravenous (IV) catheter).
MRSA infections are more likely in persons who have
recently received antibiotics or recently been in a hospital or nursing
home. In the last few years, MRSA infections have also been identified in
persons outside of hospitals. Cases of MRSA disease in the community are
associated with recent antibiotic use, sharing contaminated items, active
skin disease, and living in crowded settings. Community associated MRSA
infections are usually skin infections; however, severe illness can also
occur.
How common are staph and MRSA?
Staph colonization is very common. Staph infection
is much more unusual, and serious staph infections are even more rare.
MRSA infections used to occur just in hospitals and
healthcare facilities. Over time, these infections are being identified in
the community.
Are staph and MRSA infections treatable?
Yes, staph infections are treatable. Skin infections
can usually be treated with oral antibiotics. MRSA infections are usually
treatable, but they may be more difficult to treat. The doctor will have
to get a laboratory test to tell the difference between MRSA and staph.
How are staph and MRSA spread?
Staph and MRSA can spread among people by close
physical contact. Spread may also occur by touching objects, such as
towels, sheets, clothes, work-out areas and sports’ equipment
contaminated by the skin of a person with MRSA or staph.
How can I prevent staph or MRSA infections?
Keep your hands clean by washing thoroughly with
soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleansers also help. Keep cuts and
wounds clean and covered with a dressing until healed. Avoid contact with
other peoples’ wounds. Avoid sharing personal items.
MRSA infections can be prevented by avoiding
unnecessary use of antibiotics. Only take antibiotics if you really need
them. When a doctor prescribes antibiotics, take them as directed.
Adapted from CDC Information
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