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Health News
MRSA
(Methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus)
What is it? A difficult-to-treat staph infection, usually contracted in health care settings, but also in places where people congregate, such as schools, gymnasiums and locker rooms.
How is it spread? MRSA is usually transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with shared items or surfaces that have come into contact with someone else’s infection (towels, used bandages, etc).
What are the signs and symptoms? People may notice an abscess or boil on the skin. The area may feel warm and tender. The site may be red, angry and swollen.
Can it be treated? Yes, but doctors must differentiate between simple staph infections and staph infections resistant to standard treatments and use the correct antibiotics. Any patient on antibiotics should use all the medication, since antibiotics first kill weak bacteria, leaving the strongest to multiply.
How can it be prevented? Avoid Sharing personal items and practice good hygiene, such as keeping hands clean by washing with soap or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Any break in the skin should be properly cleaned, treated with a topical antibiotic cream and then covered.
For more information, go to www.state.nj.us/health.
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