Airborne Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection, also referred to as airborne MRSA, is more commonly know as staph infection. Staph is a natural skin bacterium that can infect the body through airway passages such as a scrap or cut. When Staph become resistant to methicillin, a simple type of penicillin, they are given the name MRSA. Staph infections are mostly contagious through contact with an infected person. On average, a person sheds millions of dead skin cells. Staph may be on some of these particles. When the particles are tiny enough, they can be inhaled into the lungs or they can land on your skin. Once the bacterium enters into the bloodstream, it can infect any part of the body. According to MRSA Info website, symptoms of airborne staph infections include pneumonia-like symptoms, skin infections and fevers. If individuals show any of these signs, they should seek medical treatment immediately.
Pneumonia-like Symptoms
Airborne staph infections can affect the respiratory system and cause pneumonia. The infection often begins with signs of a common cold including a fever and muscle aches. An excessive amount of mucus can form and cause coughing. According to MRSA info website, staph infections can cause serious symptoms like shortness of breath and immense inflammation of the lung tissue, which can lead to the destruction of the tissue. Individuals may also feel weak and fatigued. The bacteria found in MRSA infections resist most antibiotics. Therefore, it is important to take any medications as prescribed. In severe cases of pneumonia, hospitalization may be required in order to receive antibiotics intravenously.
Skin Infections
Skin infections are common symptoms for staph infections. According to the Staph Infection Resources website, the most noticeable signs are bumps and blisters on the skin. When the infection is airborne it can land on the skin and cause boils, cellulites, impetigo, and scalded or blistered skin syndrome. Boils are red, painful, and warm to the touch. Cellulites leave the skin inflamed and tender. Impetigo is a rash-like infection and is commonly found in children. These skin infections can be found on anywhere on the body, normally wherever there is skin exposure. The infection may begin with what looks like a pimple coupled with pain. But soon it can develop into an abscess, and may require surgery.
Fevers and Chills
When the staph infection enters the bloodstream it can produce fevers, chills, and low blood pressure. Individuals may have a temperature over the normal 98 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fevers that reach 103 degrees Fahrenheit or above could signal a dangerous infection. Those with low blood pressure may experience lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
