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MRSA (mur-sa)

 

 

Recognize

 

the

 

Signs

 

What is MRSA?

Directly translated, MRSA is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. That means MRSA is a potentially dangerous type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics and may cause skin and other infections. Recognizing the signs of MRSA and receiving treatment for infections in early stages reduces the risk of the infection becoming severe.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of MRSA skin infections?

MRSA and most staph skin infections appear as a bump or infected area that may be:

  • Red
  • Swollen
  • Painful
  • Warm to the touch
  • Full of pus or other drainage
  • Accompanied by a fever

 

How do I get a MRSA skin infection?

MRSA spreads when you:

  • have direct contact with another person's infection.
  • share personal items such as towels or razors that have touched an infection.
  • touch surfaces or items, such as bandages, contaminated with MRSA.

 

What should I do if I think I have a MRSA infection?

Cover the area with a bandage and contact your doctor. If you also have a fever, a call to the doctor is very important.

 

How do they treat MRSA infections?

A healthcare professional may drain the infection and prescribe an antibiotic the staph isn't resistant to. If you're given an antibiotic, it's important to take all the doses to eliminate the infection.

 

How do I protect myself and my family from MRSA skin infections?

  • Know the signs of MRSA and treat it early.
  • Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.
  • Encourage good hygiene such as washing hands regularly.
  • Discourage sharing of personal items such as towels and razors.

 

Here are some links to helpful information:

 



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