MRSA Superbug

Here’s what you should know to help protect yourself.

What is MRSA?

Staphylococcus aureus, or staph, is a common germ that many people carry in their nasal passages, under fingernails or on the skin with no ill effects. MRSA is a type of staph germ that is hard to treat with some commonly used antibiotics. However, most MRSA infections can be treated with other types of antibiotics.

What does it look like?

Infections usually occur when the bacteria get in through small scrapes or cuts, sometimes too small to notice. MRSA germs usually appear as skin infections and can occur in otherwise healthy people. The infected area usually begins with a small bump that resembles a pimple or insect bite.

How is MRSA spread?

People pick up MRSA from contact with people who already have it. MRSA
is usually spread through direct physical contact with an infected
person, or sometimes by touching objects (e.g. bandages, towels,
sheets, and clothing) that may be contaminated with the bacteria.
Outbreaks of MRSA have occurred in daycare centers, schools, prisons
and sports teams where people have close contact and share equipment
and personal items.

People with symptoms of MRSA should see a doctor. They should take all prescribed antibiotics and should also:
•    Keep draining wounds clean and covered.
•    Wash any cut or break in the skin with soap and water and apply a clean bandage daily.
•    Report new skin sores or boils to their doctor immediately.
•    Wash their hands and forearms before and after caring for the
wound and frequently throughout the day, using soap and warm water for
15 seconds and drying their hands on a clean towel or paper towel.
•    Bathe regularly and do not share bath towels or washcloths.
•    WHEN SHOWERING, wash from head to toe (in that order).
•    Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, wash cloths, razors, deodorant, clothing or bedding.
•    If you are a female and wear make-up it is advisable to replace any make-up that has come in contact with your skin.
•    Wear clean clothing.
•    Wash clothing, sheets and towels in hot water and detergent, and dry them in a hot dryer.
People participating in sports teams and/or health clubs should:
•    Immediately shower with soap and water after each game, meet or practice
•    Keep abrasions or cuts covered with a clean dry bandage. Change bandage at least daily.