Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to several common antibiotics used to treat ordinary staph infections. While MRSA can be serious, direct transmission through kissing (specifically saliva exchange) is not its primary or most common route of spread. MRSA typically spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact, particularly when there are open wounds, or through contact with items contaminated with the bacteria.
How MRSA Spreads
MRSA transmits most frequently through direct skin-to-skin contact, especially with an infected wound or lesion. This occurs in close-contact situations like sports or crowded environments. It also spreads indirectly by touching contaminated objects or surfaces, such as towels, razors, athletic equipment, or those in healthcare settings.
While kissing involves close contact, MRSA transmission is not primarily from saliva, as the organism is not found in large amounts there. Instead, transmission during kissing or intimate contact primarily involves contact with an active skin infection, or if skin or mucous membranes have a break or damage. MRSA can colonize skin or the nose without symptoms, yet still spread through direct contact or contaminated items.
Identifying MRSA
MRSA skin infections often begin as red, swollen, painful bumps resembling a pimple or spider bite. These can quickly develop into a painful boil or abscess, warm to the touch and containing pus or drainage. Some may also experience a fever with the skin infection.
These symptoms are not unique to MRSA and can be caused by other infections. If a skin lesion worsens after a few days, or if pain, redness, swelling, or pus increases, medical evaluation is recommended. A healthcare provider can determine if MRSA is the cause and recommend treatment.
Preventing MRSA Transmission
Good hygiene helps prevent MRSA infection. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable, reduces transmission risk. Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered until healed, as pus from infected sores can contain MRSA.
Individuals should avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, razors, clothing, or athletic equipment that have contacted skin or wounds. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, especially in shared environments, limits bacterial spread. For those participating in sports or activities involving skin-to-skin contact, showering immediately afterward with soap and water is recommended.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should seek medical advice if you develop a skin infection that is red, painful, swollen, or warm, especially if it worsens or does not improve within a few days. A fever accompanying a skin infection also warrants medical attention. If you have a history of MRSA or have been in contact with someone who has the infection, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if you notice any suspicious skin changes.
It is also important to contact a doctor if you observe red streaks spreading from an infection site, as this could indicate the infection is spreading deeper. Do not attempt to treat or drain suspected infections at home, as this can worsen the condition or facilitate further spread of the bacteria. A healthcare professional can properly diagnose the infection and recommend the appropriate course of action.