News reports of Methicillin-Resistant Staph. Aureus (MRSA) infections occurring in schools and other community setting have increased over the past few years. Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium commonly found on the skin and in the noses of healthy people. This is known as colonization and is usually not a problem. It is usually not harmful when it remains on the surface of the skin. However, if the bacteria enter the body through breaks or cuts in the skin, it can cause infections. These infections can be mild, limited to pimples or boils, or serious infections of the bloodstream, bones, and joints. The antibiotic methicillin was developed in the 1960’s to treat staphylococcus aureus infections that were resistant to penicillin. Now strains of s. aureus have emerged that are resistant to methicillin, known as MRSA. Other antibiotics are available to treat MRSA, but many of these require administration by IV.

MRSA infections are a particular problem in hospitals. Patients with open wounds and indwelling catheters are more susceptible to MRSA entering the body and causing infection. Patients and staff who have been colonized by MRSA act as a reservoir of MRSA that can be spread to other patients. Patients who are colonized in the hospital may transmit MRSA into the community when they return home. Increasing cases of MRSA infection in the community have been reported world-wide. These are known as community-associated MRSA or ca-MRSA. These cases often occur in healthy individuals who lack the risk factors seen in hospitalized patients. Fortunately, community-associated MRSA is still susceptible to a variety of antibiotics.

MRSA infections generally start as small red bumps that resemble pimples, boils, or spider bites. These can turn quickly into deep, painful abscesses that may require surgical drainage.

MRSA infections can best be prevented by frequent hand washing with soap- or alcohol-based antibacterial solutions. Also very important is to keep personal items personal and not share towels, sheets, razors, clothing or athletic equipment. MRSA spreads on contaminated surfaces as well as by personal contact. Athletes have been involved in MRSA outbreaks as a result of shared personal items such as razors and equipment. Wounds should be covered with sterile, dry dressings until they heal. If you have a cut or a sore, wash towels and bed linens in hot water and dry in a hot dryer. Gym and athletic wear should be washed after each use. If you have a skin infection that requires treatment, get tested for MRSA.

Reference: http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/mrsa.html.

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