MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)

• Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that is found on people’s skin, in the nose, armpits and groins. 
• About 3 or 4 out of every 10 people carry this bacteria in their nose without causing an infection or disease. 
• It is the most common cause of pus in boils, pimples, wounds, impetigo , and eye infections
• It can also be the cause of bacterial pneumonia and bladder infections.
• 40% of these bacteria are no longer killed by the antibiotic Methicillin (this is why it is called Methicillin resistant).
• It is a big problem in hospitals where people are very ill because they cannot fight off infection. Some disinfectants and cleaners cannot kill it.

• The symptoms will depend on where the infection is taking place.
• With wounds, it will cause redness of the surrounding skin and an oozing from the wound.  If the infection is serious, fever, tiredness and headache may also be present. 
• If it is in the urine, it may cause a burning sensation during urination or having to urinate frequently.
• Some people can have the MRSA bacteria in their body but have no symptoms. This is called being colonized and is only a problem if that person is in the hospital or another healthcare facility.

• Hand washing is the best method to protect yourself.  If you wash your hands with soap and warm water you will get rid of the bacteria. The soap does not have to be antibacterial.

• The people at greatest risk of getting sick are those with wounds, in dwelling medical devices, sutures, catheters and I.V. lines, the elderly or debilitated and those who have taken antibiotics for a long time.