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What is MRSA?

 

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Stapylococcus aureus) is a strain of staph bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics such as methicillin, amoxicillin and penicillin.  MRSA infections are traditionally seen in people recently hospitalized or who have been treated at a health care facility. 

 

What is CA-MRSA (Community-associated MRSA)?

 

CA-MRSA infections are considered to be community-associated because they occur in people who have not been hospitalized or had a medical procedure in the past year.  CA-MRSA infections have been documented among athletes, prisoners, military recruits, day care attendees, injection drug users, and others who live in crowded settings or routinely share contaminated items.  MRSA infections in the community are usually manifested as skin infections, such as pimple and boils, and occur in otherwise healthy people.

 

What does a CA-MRSA infection look like?

 

A skin infection with CA-MRSA can begin as a reddened area on the skin, or resemble a pimple that can develop into a skin abcess or boil causing fever, pus, swelling or pain.  CA-MRSA skin infections can be treated by a health care professional by locally caring for the wound and antibiotics may be given if necessary.  The infection can progress to a more serious and difficult-to-treat stage if not treated properly and promptly.

 

How is CA-MRSA spread?

 

CA-MRSA is spread through person-to-person contact or contact with contaminated items such as towels, razors, uniforms and athletic equipment.  Poor hygiene practices help facilitate the spread of the bacteria.

 

How can I prevent CA-MRSA skin infections?

 

CA-MRSA skin infections can be prevented by practicing good personal hygiene and avoiding  contact with infected areas.  Ways to practice good hygiene include:

· Keep your hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

· Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed.

· Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages.

· Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

 

If I have a MRSA skin infection what can I do to prevent others from getting infected?

 

· Cover your wound.  Keep wounds that are draining or have pus covered with clean, dry bandages.  Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on proper care of the wound.

· Clean your hands.  You, your family, and others in close contact should wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after changing the bandage.

· Do not share personal items.  Do not share towels, razors or washcloths.  Wash sheets, towels and clothes that become soiled with warm water and laundry detergent.  Drying clothes in a hot dryer also helps kill bacteria in clothes.

· Talk to your doctor.  Tell any healthcare providers who treat you that you have or had a staph or MRSA skin infection.

 

 

Is it possible for a MRSA skin infection to come back after it is cured?

 

It is possible to have a staph or MRSA infection come back after it is cured.  To prevent this from happening, follow your healthcare provider’s directions while you have the infection.

 

For more information visit the New York State Health Department’s website at www.health.state.ny.us.