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MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)
MRSA is a strain of the SA (Staphylococus aureus) bacteria, which is relatively common and generally harmless. However, MRSA has evolved to become resistant to certain antibiotics, like Penicillin and Methicillin. Because of this resistance, treating MRSA is difficult, and once infected, only the most powerful drugs can offer any hope of combating the bacteria.
How does it spread?
Just like all SA bacteria, MRSA is mainly transferred by touch, person to person, but because it can also survive on surfaces and fabric, it can be spread by contact with contaminated objects such as handles, seats, table surfaces and instruments.
MRSA most commonly enters the body through the respiratory tract, the inside of the nostrils (through airborne particles) and the urinary tract. Any breaking of the skin (scrapes, stings, open wounds, incisions from surgery) or use of intravenous catheters, will also pose a high risk of the bacteria invading the body.
Symptoms
In a healthy individual, an SA infection will usually cause a minor skin infection. However, for those with weakened immune systems, infection can be very serious. MRSA can manifest itself in the form of boils, rashes or sores, abscesses, acute forms of pneumonia and, if it enters the bloodstream, blood poisoning, eventually leading to life threatening illness.
People most at risk
People with weakened immune systems, such as pregnant women, the elderly, or children under five (who do not have fully developed immune systems). Patients with open wounds or temporarily weakened immune systems are also at a higher risk of infection.
Best prevention
- Wash your hands thoroughly, regularly, and use a hand sanitiser, especially after contact with an infected person, after using the toilet and before handling food.
- Use and antiseptic and cover any broken skin with a clean dressing.
- Wipe down and sanitise frequently used surfaces and items such as handles, switches, telephones, kettles etc.
- Do not share towels, toothbrushes or other intimate items.
- Wash an infected persons linen and clothing separately from your own, either at 60degrees or with a biological detergent at 40 degrees.
- Cloths used for cleaning should be completely disinfected by soaking in bleach.