MRSA or Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus is a bacterial infection caused by a type of staph bacteria which is now popularly referred to as ‘Super Bug’ because of its strong resistance against antibiotics. MRSA is associated with severe skin infections and can also lead to harmful infections in the blood, lungs and urinary tract. It usually occurs in people who have been hospitalised in the past. In these cases, it is also known as Health Care Associated – MRSA, or simply HA-MRSA.

Causes of MRSA-

The one and only obvious cause of MRSA is the repeated and unnecessary use of antibiotics over a long period of time. Since bacteria evolve very quickly, the germs which survive the onslaught of one antibiotic gradually learn how to resist other antibiotics in course of time.

Symptoms-

1. Painful, swollen red bumps resembling spider bites
2. Deep and painful abscesses
3. Bone and joint infections
4. Surgical wound infections
5. Bloodstream infections
6. Lung infections

Treatment-

Since most MRSA strains are immune to antibiotics, the best way to treat the condition is by draining a superficial abscess caused by MRSA and to abstain from any use of drugs.

Prevention-

1. Prevention of HA-MRSA or Health Care Associated – MRSA: Since MRSA is an infectious disease it can spread rapidly by skin to skin contact. People who are infected with MRSA in hospitals are often isolated in separate containment cells in order to prevent the spread of MRSA.
2. Prevention of CA-MRSA or Community Associated – MRSA:

• Keep your wounds covered
• Wash your hands carefully
• Sanitise your towels and linens
• Keep your personal belongings to yourself
• Immediately shower after exercise or sports