What is MSRA?

     MRSA stands for Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus.  This strain is resistant to a number of antibiotics, including the antibiotic, methicillin.  It is a group of bacteria that lives on people's skin and inside the nose.  Usually, it is harmless, and most people who are carrying it do not even know it.  Since it is found on the skin, it can be easily spread through contact.

Why is MSRA a health concern?

     MSRA can become a health concern because it can enter the body through an open wound or cut.  While most people are healthy enough that they can fight off this infection with only mild symptoms, some people with weaker immunity suffer from boils, abscesses, septic wounds, impetigo, heart-valve problems, and even toxic shock syndrome.  Rarely, in extreme cases, it can result in death.

What is the treatment of MRSA?

     Since MRSA is resistant to some antibiotics, it can be harder to find an antibiotic that will treat it effectively.  Most strains of MRSA have been treated with vancomycin, mupirocin, and teicoplanin.  If the person with MRSA has a weak immune system, the antibiotic amy be given as injections.

Where does MRSA originate?

    Doctors say that MRSA has developed for three reasons.  First, because of the widespread use of antibiotics.  Second, because of our dislike of tablets, and finally, because of genetic selections.  Doctors continue to explain to us how important it is to complete an entire series of antibiotics so that the stronger bacteria do not survive. 

Why are people in hospitals especially at risk for MRSA?

     There are several reasons for this.  First, by nature, hospitals have a lot of patients with weak immune systems, so they are more susceptible to MRSA.  Secondly, many patients have a catheter or intravenous drip which creates a wound in which MRSA can penetrate the body.  Thirds, people in hospitals are living in close quarters, which increases the risks involved.  Finally, hospitals provide the bacteria with a lot of opportunities to encounter a range of antibiotics and can develop greater resistance to all of them.

How can we protects ourselves from the MRSA Spread?

    1.   First of all, wash your hands. 

    2.  Use an entire series of antibiotics if prescribed.

    3.  Do not use antibiotics for viral infections.