Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is a type of staph bacteria resistant to common antibiotics like methicillin and penicillin. Many people carry staph bacteria on their skin or in their nose without illness. However, MRSA can cause infections that are challenging to treat due to this resistance. Understanding how it spreads and implementing prevention strategies can help control its transmission.
Understanding MRSA Transmission
MRSA primarily spreads through direct physical contact with someone who has the bacteria on their skin or an active infection. This often involves skin-to-skin contact. The bacteria can also enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, scrapes, or surgical wounds.
MRSA can also spread indirectly by touching contaminated surfaces or items. These include shared personal items like towels, razors, clothing, or athletic equipment. MRSA can survive on surfaces for days to weeks. Some individuals may carry MRSA on their body without showing symptoms, a state known as colonization, yet they can still spread the bacteria to others.
Everyday Prevention Methods
Practicing good hand hygiene is a primary defense against MRSA. Regularly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are unavailable. This is important after contact with shared surfaces or before and after caring for wounds.
Proper wound care also plays a role in prevention. Clean and cover cuts and scrapes with a clean, dry bandage until they heal. This helps prevent bacteria from entering the body through broken skin. Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, washcloths, and athletic gear, as these items can harbor the bacteria.
Regular cleaning and disinfection of frequently touched surfaces in homes and shared environments, such as gyms or locker rooms, can reduce MRSA presence. Surfaces that come into direct skin contact, like benches or gym equipment, should be cleaned with appropriate disinfectants. Showering immediately after activities involving skin-to-skin contact or shared equipment can also help remove bacteria from the skin.
Preventing Spread for Those with MRSA
Individuals with an MRSA infection or colonization should follow medical guidance to prevent further spread. Complete any prescribed antibiotic courses, even if symptoms improve, to ensure effective treatment and reduce antibiotic resistance. Medical professionals may also recommend specific treatments, such as antiseptic body washes or nasal creams, to reduce MRSA on the body.
Wound management is important for preventing transmission from an infected area. Keep infected wounds covered with clean, dry bandages and properly dispose of used dressings to contain the bacteria. Avoid touching the wound directly and wash hands thoroughly after any contact with the infected area or changing dressings.
To minimize indirect spread, do not share personal items that have come into contact with the infected area, such as towels or clothing. Laundry that has been in contact with an infected person can be washed using routine procedures with detergent and water. Machine drying completely on a hot setting can also help eliminate bacteria. Inform healthcare providers about a history of MRSA when seeking medical care, allowing them to take appropriate precautions.