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MRSA:  What Is It and How Can You Prevent It?

In recent years, the number of infections caused by a specific strain of staph bacteria known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, has increased, particularly in schools and communities.

MRSA produces pus-filled lesions (abscesses or boils) on the skin and is difficult to treat given its natural resistance to some antibiotics. Left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. To minimize your chance of contracting MRSA, it’s important to understand how it spreads, who’s at risk and what you can do to prevent it.

How It Spreads

MRSA usually is contracted through a cut or abrasion on the skin that comes into contact with a person who has MRSA on his/her skin or a surface touched by an MRSA-infected person.


Who's at Risk?

While anyone can contract MRSA, those most susceptible to it and other staph infections include caregivers, health care workers and individuals who come in close contact with those infected; those with weakened immune systems; and children. MRSA outbreaks can occur in a variety of settings, including:
  • Child care facilities
  • Schools
  • Households
  • Hospitals
  • Long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes
  • Military training camps
  • Prisons
  • Overcrowded or unsanitary places
Additionally, those who engage in contact sports or visit gyms frequently also are at risk for MRSA infection.
         

Treatment and Prevention

Antibiotics are available to combat MRSA skin infections. However, because MRSA is resistant to some antibiotics, like penicillin and amoxicillin, doctors typically do not prescribe antibiotics. This helps to prevent the development of more antibiotic-resistant MRSA strains. Instead, doctors will drain the MRSA-infected area.

In general, MRSA is more easily prevented than it is treated. The following guidelines will help you minimize your risk of contracting MRSA:
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and hot water. When soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Treat skin abrasions or wounds with an antiseptic and cover with a clean bandage until healed.
  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors and bandages.
  • Use a towel or other clean item as a barrier between yourself and gym equipment or anything that is frequently used by others.
  • Shower immediately after gym workouts and skin-to-skin contact.
More information about MRSA can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site and on the Mayo Clinic Web site.

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Last Update: September 16, 2009