Download Infectious Disease Committee, Woodbury County Definition

MRSA
Fact Sheet: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Prepared by: Infectious Disease Committee, Woodbury County
Definition:
Methicillin-Resistant Staphlococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of Staphylococcus or “Staph”
bacteria. Staph bacteria commonly live on the skin and in the nose and usually do not cause
any harm. However, sometimes they cause infections. These infections are usually treated with
antibiotics. When common antibiotics don’t kill the staph bacteria, it means the bacteria have
become resistant to those antibiotics. This type of staph is called MRSA.
Appearance:
Ø Sores that look and feel like spider bites
Ø Large, red painful bumps under the skin (boils)
Ø A cut that is swollen, hot and filled with pus
1/3
MRSA
Ø Blisters filled with fluid (impetigo)
Treatment:
Your healthcare provider will decide the best way to treat your infection. Treatment may include
taking an antibiotic or having a doctor drain the infection. If you are given an antibiotic, be sure
to take all the doses and do not share them with other people or save them to use later.
Prevention:
Ø Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Ø Keep your cuts and scrapes clean and cover them with bandages
Ø Do not touch other people’s cuts or bandages
Ø Do not share personal items like towels or razors
2/3
MRSA
More Information:
To access additional information please visit www.cdc.gov/MRSA or click here .
3/3