Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as MRSA, is a type of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to several common antibiotics, including methicillin, penicillin, and amoxicillin. This resistance makes MRSA infections more challenging to treat compared to infections caused by other Staphylococcus aureus strains. A person is considered an “MRSA carrier” when they have this bacteria living on or in their body without showing any signs or symptoms of an active infection.
Understanding MRSA Colonization
MRSA colonization means the bacteria are present on the body without causing illness or symptoms, distinct from an active infection where bacteria invade tissues and cause symptoms like skin sores, redness, swelling, pain, or fever. Many people can carry Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, including MRSA, on their skin or in their nose without it causing any problems. About one in three people typically have Staphylococcus aureus on their skin or in their nose, and a smaller percentage carry MRSA.
MRSA commonly colonizes the skin, particularly in moist areas such as the inside of the nose, throat, armpits, groin, and skin folds. It can also be found in other areas like the rectum or in chronic wounds. While carriers are usually asymptomatic, the colonized site can act as a reservoir, potentially leading to an infection if the bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin.
How Someone Becomes an MRSA Carrier
Individuals can acquire MRSA and become carriers through various routes, primarily direct skin-to-skin contact with someone who is either infected or colonized with the bacteria. The bacteria can also spread indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces or objects, such as towels, bedding, athletic equipment, or hospital surfaces, where MRSA can survive for some time. For an infection to develop, the bacteria typically need a breach in the skin, like a cut, scrape, or puncture.
Several factors can increase the risk of becoming an MRSA carrier. These include recent hospitalization or stays in nursing homes, as healthcare settings are common environments for MRSA. Close physical contact with others, such as in crowded living conditions like military barracks, daycare centers, or jails, and participation in contact sports, can also facilitate transmission. Additionally, having a household member under seven years old or recent antibiotic use within the past year are also risk factors.
Managing Being an MRSA Carrier
Being an MRSA carrier is typically identified through a swab test of the nose or skin. Carriers can potentially transmit MRSA to others, particularly individuals who are more vulnerable, such as those with weakened immune systems or patients undergoing surgery. The risk of transmission is generally lower for colonized individuals compared to those with active infections that have pus or drainage.
Maintaining good personal hygiene helps reduce the amount of bacteria on the skin and minimize spread. This includes frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable. It is also advised not to share personal items like towels, razors, or athletic equipment. Keeping any cuts or scrapes clean and covered with bandages can prevent the bacteria from entering the body or spreading to others.
Decolonization treatments reduce or eliminate MRSA from the body, typically involving antiseptic body washes and nasal ointments used for about five days. These treatments, such as mupirocin nasal ointment and chlorhexidine body wash, are generally reserved for specific situations. They are often recommended for individuals with a higher risk of infection, such as those with underlying medical conditions, those planning to have surgery, or healthcare workers. Decolonization aims to reduce the likelihood of the carrier developing an infection themselves or transmitting the bacteria to others, though routine screening after decolonization is not always necessary.