Mrsa Virus

MRSA: A Threat to Public Health

What is MRSA?

MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It is a type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics, including methicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics. MRSA can cause a variety of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia. Some strains of MRSA produce Panton-Valentine leukocidin, a toxin that is linked to severe and often fatal necrotizing pneumonia.

How is MRSA Spread?

MRSA is spread through contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces. MRSA can live on surfaces for up to several months and can be spread by touching contaminated objects and then touching your face or an open wound. MRSA can be spread in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals and other healthcare facilities
• Nursing homes
• Schools
• Daycare centers
• Prisons
• Military barracks

Symptoms of MRSA

MRSA can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the type of infection. Symptoms of skin and soft tissue infections may include:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Pain
• Warmth
• Discharge

Symptoms of bloodstream infections may include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Low blood pressure

Symptoms of pneumonia may include:

• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Chills
• Weakness

Treatment of MRSA

MRSA is treated with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the type of infection and the susceptibility of the bacteria to different antibiotics. Some strains of MRSA are resistant to all antibiotics, making treatment difficult. In these cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

Prevention of MRSA

There are a number of things you can do to prevent the spread of MRSA, including:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your face or open wounds.
• Cover any cuts or abrasions with a bandage.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with MRSA.
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels or razors, with someone who is infected with MRSA.