MRSA, also known as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a bacterium that can cause infections that are resistant to common antibiotics. MRSA is most known for being acquired in hospital or medical settings like nursing homes or dialysis centers. MRSA infections are also found in persons in community settings. Since this bacterium is resistant, it is more difficult to treat than other infections, and this can have several consequences.
Individual Consequences
Persons with MRSA will sometimes present with a skin abscess or fever. If the infection is severe, they might have fatigue, rashes, headache or difficulty breathing. If an MRSA skin infection becomes severe enough, sometimes a doctor needs to surgically incise the area to allow it to drain. In some cases, oral antibiotics can be used to treat it; however, in more severe cases, MRSA may need to be treated with IV antibiotics. Persons with a severe infection will sometimes have to be hospitalized for surgery, treatment, or monitoring.
Spread of Infection
An MRSA infection may start as a skin infection; however, it can spread to different parts of the body. In persons who have an immune problem or have other chronic conditions, MRSA can be dangerous. Areas of the body to which MRSA can spread, according to MayoClinic.com, include the bloodstream, lungs, joints, heart and bones. Some related illnesses include pneumonia, blood infections, cellulitis, or an infection in the heart.
Repeat Infections
If one has had an MRSA infection, it is possible for the individual to get the infection again, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is important that persons with a history of MRSA take proper preventative measures and get evaluated by a doctor if symptoms of another infection occur.
Community Consequences
Since MRSA is a bacterium, this infection can spread from person to person. MRSA has the potential to infect persons that are in close contact with each other such as those on athletic teams, persons living in nursing homes or shelters, or persons in the hospital. In addition, caregivers and persons that live in the same household may be at risk. Sharing personal items such as towels, athletic equipment, or razors is a big risk factor. Good personal hygiene, washing hands, appropriately disinfecting surfaces and other equipment are all measures for prevention of MRSA. In addition, getting MRSA treated quickly and covering draining wounds is important.
