Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as MRSA, is a type of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to several common antibiotics. While Staphylococcus aureus bacteria often live harmlessly on the skin or in the nose of about one in three people, they can cause serious infections if they enter the body through a break in the skin. MRSA infections are more difficult to treat due to this antibiotic resistance, making them a significant concern as they can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening conditions impacting the bloodstream, lungs, heart, bones, and joints.
Understanding Effective Disinfectants
Several categories of disinfectants are effective against MRSA, each working through distinct mechanisms to neutralize the bacteria. When selecting a product, it is important to confirm that the label explicitly states effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provides lists of registered antimicrobial products that specifically target MRSA.
Alcohol-based disinfectants, such as ethanol and isopropanol, denature proteins and disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria, leading to their destruction. Solutions typically containing between 60% and 90% alcohol are considered most effective for killing bacteria, with 70% alcohol often optimal for surface disinfection. These are commonly found in hand sanitizers and surface wipes.
Chlorine-based disinfectants, including household bleach (sodium hypochlorite), work by oxidation, disrupting cell walls, denaturing proteins, and damaging DNA within microbial cells. A common recommendation for a bleach solution is mixing one tablespoon of bleach with one quart of water, which should be prepared fresh daily. Chlorine is effective against a broad range of microorganisms.
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, often referred to as Quats, are another group of antimicrobials found in many disinfectant products. Quats are positively charged molecules that attach to and break open the negatively charged outer membranes of bacteria, causing cell death. They are effective against gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and are used in many settings.
Hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent, generating hydroxyl radicals that attack cell membranes, proteins, and DNA, leading to cellular damage and death. A 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant for surfaces, though it may require a contact time of at least 10 minutes. Phenolics are also effective against MRSA, primarily by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, similar to alcohols and quats.
Applying Disinfectants Effectively
Effective disinfection against MRSA involves more than simply applying a product; proper technique ensures the disinfectant can perform its intended function. A fundamental step is to clean surfaces thoroughly with soap and water before applying any disinfectant. This pre-cleaning removes visible dirt and organic matter, which can interfere with the disinfectant’s ability to reach and neutralize pathogens like MRSA.
It is essential to always read and follow the instructions provided on the disinfectant product label. Labels specify crucial details such as the correct dilution ratio for concentrated products, ensuring the solution is strong enough to be effective without being overly harsh. The label also indicates the necessary contact time, also known as dwell time, which is the duration the disinfectant must remain wet on the surface to kill the target microorganisms effectively. Failing to observe the recommended contact time can significantly reduce the product’s germ-killing ability.
Using disinfectants requires certain safety precautions, including ensuring good ventilation in the area. Opening windows and doors or using fans can increase air circulation, which helps to disperse chemical fumes and reduce inhalation exposure. Wearing personal protective equipment, such as disposable gloves and eye protection, is also advisable to prevent skin and eye irritation from chemical contact. It is important to avoid mixing different chemical disinfectants, as this can create dangerous chemical reactions, produce toxic gases, or reduce their overall effectiveness. Always store disinfectants out of reach of children in a cool, dry place.
Broader Prevention Strategies
Beyond specific disinfectant use, a comprehensive approach to preventing MRSA transmission includes several general hygiene and environmental practices. Hand hygiene is a primary defense against spreading germs, including MRSA. Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is highly effective. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used, particularly if hands are not visibly soiled.
Regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces is also an important strategy, even if full disinfection is not always performed. MRSA can survive on surfaces like towels, razors, and furniture for extended periods, from hours to weeks. Focusing on high-contact areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and shared equipment helps reduce the presence of the bacteria.
Proper wound care plays a role in preventing MRSA infections from developing or spreading. Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a clean, dry bandage until they heal can prevent the bacteria from entering the body or spreading.
Avoiding the sharing of personal items is another important measure to limit transmission. Items like towels, washcloths, razors, clothing, and athletic equipment can harbor MRSA and facilitate its spread through direct contact or contaminated objects.
Laundry practices also contribute to prevention, especially for items that may have come into contact with infected areas. Washing clothes and linens in hot water, with bleach if appropriate for the fabric, and drying them in a hot dryer can help kill bacteria like MRSA. Regularly cleaning bedding and workout clothes after each use helps maintain a hygienic environment.