MRSA = methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
Staphylococcus aureus (staph) is a common bacteria often found on the skin and nose of healthy people. It can also grow in wounds or other sites in the body. Staph is one of the most common causes of skin infection. It is most often treated successfully by antibiotics. However, MRSA is a type of staph infection that is resistant to certain antibiotics and needs to be treated by a healthcare provider.
Like normal bacteria staph, MRSA usually does not cause disease unless it enters an opening in the skin. MRSA most often occurs in healthcare facilities and hospitals.
Staph Bacteria is spread most often by close contact with infected people or things they touch. It is not spread through the air.
Infections of the skin are most common and these symptoms include:
redness, warmth, pus and a wound that does not heal. Other symptoms depend on the site of infection and may include pain and fever.
If you suspect a staph infection, see your healthcare provider!
Prevention Tips:
- Wash your hands often.
- Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.
- Avoid sharing personal items.
- Don’t touch other people’s cuts or scrapes.
- If a sore or cut becomes red, oozes, causes pain or isn’t healing, see your healthcare provider.