Definition

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria. It causes infections that are hard to treat with normal antibiotics. It may happen inside or outside of a care center.

Causes

It is caused by a type of staph bacteria that cannot be treated by most antibiotics. It spreads through contact with infected people or items.

Risk Factors

The type that happens outside a care center is more common in young children, athletes, prisoners, and people in the military. Other risks are:

• Time spent in crowded places, such as day cares, colleges, and locker rooms
• Skin to skin contact, such as with sports like wrestling and football
• Having broken skin or an open sore
• Sharing personal items
• Poor hygiene
• Using IV drugs
• Having a severe illness
• Being around animals

The type that happens inside a care center is more common in men and older adults. Other risks are:

• Time spent in a long-term care center or hospital
• Having a lasting health problem
• Being treated with an antibiotic for a long time
• Having a wound
• Being around a person with MRSA
• Having medical devices in the body, such as a catheter

Symptoms

A person may have:

• Skin that is swollen, red, and painful or warm to the touch
• A sore that is leaking
• Fever

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Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done.

A person's nose or wound will be swabbed to test for bacteria.

Treatment

The infection will need to be treated. This can be done with:

Prevention

These steps can help lower the chances of infection:

• Washing your hands and body with soap and water, especially after working out
• Not sharing personal items
• Keeping wounds clean and covered until they heal
• Getting care at the first signs of any infection