MRSA - What is MRSA?
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that causes infection. Unlike many infections, MRSA infections can’t be cured or controlled by antibiotics like penicillin. There are two types of MRSA. HA-MRSA (hospital-acquired) occurs most frequently among people in hospitals and health care facilities who are older and have weakened immune systems.
CA-MRSA (community-acquired) causes infection in people outside of hospitals and healthcare settings. Many of these people are young and otherwise healthy. CA-MRSA infections generally start as small painful red bumps that look like pimples or boils. These bumps can turn into deep, painful abscesses that require surgical drainage. CA-MRSA produces toxins that cause a great deal of redness, pain, and inflammation. It can be spread among healthy people and has caused recurring infections in some patients as well as outbreaks in families, households, and sports teams.
Treatment for a MRSA infection may include taking an antibiotic (such as vancomycin) that works against MRSA or having a doctor drain the infection.
Risk factors for MRSA, include:
- Young age
- Participating in contact sports (MRSA affects both amateur and professional sports teams)
- Sharing towels or sports equipment
- Living in crowded or dirty conditions
The best way to prevent MRSA infections are to:
- Wash your hands
- Keep personal items personal, avoid sharing towels, sheets, razors, clothing, and sports equipment
- Keep wounds covered
If you think you might have a MRSA infection, please see your healthcare provider right away. For more information about MRSA, see our list of Recommended Sites or the links provided below:
In the Community
Find MRSA prevention tips for parents of school children, athletes, and more.
In the Hospital
Get questions to ask your doctor and tips for visiting friends and family in the hospital.
In the Workplace
Work in a healthcare setting, athletic department, school, or gym? Get tips for keeping your workplace safe.
