MRSA Staph Infection
The "super bug" that many hospitals and healthcare providers worry about is also known as an MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) staph infection. This infection is difficult to treat and can be fatal if not treated as soon as possible, which makes it a very serious concern for healthcare providers and institutions, as well as community organizations. There are two different MRSA staph infection categories that you should be aware of.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are the source of the problem in MRSA staph infections. The increasing use of anti-bacterial soaps and products is related to the increasing strength of bacteria to control. So when people get sick the "bugs" that infect them can't be controlled by regular approaches. Keeping your immune system strong is one approach to reducing your risk of getting a MRSA infection, and one way to do that is to quit using anti-bacterial soap.
Community associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) is a form of MRSA that is found in community organizations, including sports organizations, prisons, military camps, and more. Young children are especially susceptible to this strain of an MRSA staph infection, simply because they are more likely to take part in community sponsored sports and events. The infection enters through a cut or scrape on the body and due to the fact that children's immune systems are not as advanced, they can quickly cause serious medical problems, including pneumonia.
CA-MRSA has been known to infect entire sports teams through contact sports and from sharing towels. The bacteria can be easily spread through skin-to-skin contact and through cuts and scrapes. The ability to spread through the shared use of towels, sports equipment, razors, and uniforms is through the contact with your skin, so if you are a member of an organization where these items are shared, you may want to take precautions against MRSA staph infection, including ensuring that the items that you use have been properly disinfected, and better yet, by not sharing.
Health care associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) is a big worry of health care institutions and providers. A current or recent hospitalization can increase your chances of getting this MRSA staph infection, especially if you have a weakened immune system or other health issues. Recent antibiotic use can increase your chance of getting HA-MRSA and prolonged care in a health care facility can as well. Invasive device usage, including breathing tubes, catheters, and more, can also increase the incidence of this MRSA staph infection.
Both hospital and community associated MRSA infections can be treated with certain medications, although it is common to see infections that are difficult to treat with medications that were previously used. This resistance to medications is what has many health care providers worried about the future. A superficial abscess that is caused by an MRSA staph infection may not need medication, as they can be surgically drained to remove the infection.
The best way to prevent these MRSA staph infections is to practice proper disinfection techniques, and that doesn't include using anti-bacterial soaps. Washing your hands, and disinfecting sports equipment and other items can help to decrease the spread of these MRSA staph infections. Keep your personal items personal and make sure that any healthcare worker that comes into contact with you or your family members washes their hands. This can help to keep you safe from an MRSA staph infection.
Both community and healthcare associated MRSA infections need proper medical care to help prevent further damage. Serious illness and even death can occur if you are not treated quickly and correctly. If you suspect an MRSA staph infection, get medical attention promptly.
