- Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus is often referred to as a super-bug because it is difficult to kill. These strains of bacteria often develop as a result of incorrect or unnecessary use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to combat illnesses like urinary tract infections and sinus infections. But they are ineffective against viruses like the cold and flu. Sometimes people take them anyway, thinking that the antibiotic will help them, but this unnecessary use can allow bacteria in the body to develop a resistance to the medication. The same can happen when someone takes antibiotics but doesn't finish the course of the medication. The bacteria aren't completely killed and can become immune to the antibiotics. When these resistant bacteria form, it is difficult to find an antibiotic that can kill them.
- MRSA is spread in the same way that as many other infections--from person to person by physical contact or by touching objects that the sick person has used. MRSA infections also are notorious for breaking out in hospitals. The close contact and use of various tools in a hospital make spreading bacteria very easy, even with proper sanitation. The bacteria can be present on surgical tools and infect the patient. Surgery patients are at an elevated risk, because the bacteria are more likely to enter through an open wound.
- Because there are many manifestations of MRSA, the symptoms can vary greatly. One of the more common types of the bacteria causes skin wounds. The bacteria can get into an open cut, causing infection and irritation. MRSA also can cause respiratory infections; symptoms include wheezing and coughing, and it sometimes may result in pneumonia.
- If you suspect that you are suffering from some type of infection, visit your doctor, who will take samples of body fluid or drainage from the wound and look at it under the microscope. By testing different types of antibiotics on the sample and seeing how the bacteria react, the doctor can determine which medication would be best equipped to fight the infection. For some infections, an oral or topical antibiotic will be prescribed. Sometimes, if the infection is bad enough, the patient will need to be hospitalized and given antibiotics intravenously.
- MRSA is prevented just as other contagious diseases are. One simple and effective method is to wash your hands frequently. It is also very important to disinfect any wounds and keep them covered to prevent bacteria from entering. To prevent the development of MRSA, take antibiotics with caution. Only use them when necessary, and make sure you finish the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better early.
