MRSA is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus - a type of bacterium that is resistant to treatment with certain antibiotics. Most of the time, MRSA causes skin infections, but it can also lead to pneumonia and bloodstream infections. In the past, MRSA occurred in hospitals and nursing homes, but it is becoming more common in community settings such as schools and daycare centers.
People can become infected with MRSA by touching infected people or contaminated objects and surfaces. These bacteria can then enter the body through cuts, scrapes, or other openings in the skin.
“Staph” bacteria can be found on the skin of healthy people, but only a very small percentage is MRSA. Anyone can get MRSA. MRSA can spread easily among people who spend time in close contact with each other, such as family members and participants in close-contact sports. MRSA is not spread through the air.
Personal hygiene is very important in preventing and controlling the spread of MRSA infections. Washing hands frequently throughout the day, showering after playing contact sports or using gym equipment, and laundering clothing in hot water will help prevent the spread of MRSA skin infections. Do not share clothing, towels or personal care items. Keep all skin wounds covered with a bandage. Seek medical care right away if you think you may be infected to prevent dangerous complications from developing.
High risk behaviors that are associated with MRSA are:
Sharing personal care items such as razors, bar soap, cosmetics or towels
Getting tattoos and body piercing using unsterile equipment
Engaging in sexual activity or having close physical contact with MRSA-infected people
Sharing syringes
Sharing athletic gear (pads or helmets) that is not cleaned regularly
Please review the following web sites regarding Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The information presented on these web sites should help you answer questions regarding MRSA.
Centers for Disease Control
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca.html
New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services
http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/mrsa/documents/school_and_athletics_brochure.pdf
http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/mrsa/index.shtml
http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/mrsa/documents/mrsa_faq.pdf
http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/mrsa/documents/mrsa_factsheet.pdf
http://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/mrsa/documents/camrsa_school_101205.pdf
National Association of School Nurses
http://www.nasn.org