MRSA Virus Information
- MRSA is an abbreviation for "methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus" which is a strain of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (staph). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explain that MRSA causes infections on the surface of the skin and is resistant to many of the antibiotics that are commonly used to treat infections.
- The MRSA infection appears as small boils on the skin in the early stages. As the infection progresses, the boils begin to spread and burrow deeper into the skin. Mayo Clinic reports that the wounds can become quite sore and begin to weep a foul-smelling, light-colored fluid. Additional symptoms include muscle aches, fatigue, headache and cough. Fever often becomes an issue during this time, and it is imperative that medical assistance is sought before the infection manifests into a life-threatening situation.
- Minor MRSA treatments consist of a trip to the doctor who will drain the MRSA sores. But, for infections that are in the advanced stages, medication is needed. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, antibiotic therapy is required to treat MRSA. Unfortunately, there are only a few antibiotics that appear to be successful in combating the infection. Clindamycin, daptomycin, doxycycline, zyvox and minocycline are the top five antibiotics for the treatment of MRSA, and it is important to note that the prescribed antibiotic must be taken as directed and followed through to the last dose in order to avoid a relapse.
- The group of people that has the highest risk of contracting MRSA are young children. The immune systems of small children are not fully developed and can be easily blindsided by the infection. Patients with HIV and AIDS, and those who have a weakened immune system are also susceptible to the MRSA virus. Health care workers are also at risk because of their close contact with patients who have the virus, and people who live in conditions that are less than sanitary face an increased risk of acquiring MRSA. Finally, Rhode Island Department of Health points out that athletes are at a high risk; especially, those that partake in contact sports.
- There are ways to prevent the spread of MRSA. According to the New York State Department of Health, proper hand washing and wound care is essential. All infections should be thoroughly cleaned with an antibiotic ointment and covered with a sterile bandage. In communal areas, such as schools and dorms where one or several people have been infected with MRSA, the disinfection of all hard surfaces is a must.