MRSA
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
What is MRSA ?
This is a common bacteria which has become resistant to several antibiotics.
What can it do ?
It may be carried by people on their skin and in their noses without causing an infection. It can be carried more easily on skin that is broken, for example where there is a rash, cut or a sore.
How is MRSA transmitted ?
MRSA can be passed from person to person by skin to skin contact.
How can MRSA be prevented ?
Transmission can be prevented by good hand washing. Standard isolation of infected persons can help prevent the spread, your local infection control nurse can advise you if you are a carer or live with someone who has MRSA.
Why are hospitals so concerned about MRSA ?
In hospitals there are many patients about to have surgery or who have recently had surgery who may be more vulnerable to infection with MRSA because they are unwell or have open wounds. For these reasons there is concern about spread of MRSA in hospitals to those vulnerable people. Patients with MRSA may be isolated in side rooms or on special wards.
Where should people with MRSA be treated until the infection has gone ?
Outside hospitals, in the community people can carry MRSA without it causing harm to themselves or others. Simple every day hygiene precautions are required such as keeping cuts and grazes covered with a waterproof dressing and washing hands after contact with someone with MRSA. MRSA infection should not prevent a person being discharged from hospital.
Will the MRSA harm my friends and family ?
Not if they are healthy. Ask your doctor or the infection control nurse if you are not sure.
Can MRSA be treated ?
Yes, however it may be more difficult to treat as we have fewer antibiotics which can be used. Treatment normally lasts 5 days and then further swabs are taken to check that the infection has gone.
Can it come back ?
Yes, be careful with personal hygiene and hand washing. If you have to go into hospital let the staff know that you have had MRSA so that they can make sure you no longer have it.
How will I be cared for if i have MRSA ?
Whilst in hospital, until treatment has been successful, it is likely that you will be put in a side room to prevent the germ being spread to other susceptible patients on the ward. If you are found to be MRSA positive in your own home or in a residential/nursing home it will be unnecessary to keep you away from other people.
FURTHER INFORMATION
This page gives general information.
If you require further details, please contact :
Kennet District Council Environmental Health Tel : 01380 724911
Wiltshire Health Protection Agency Tel : 01380 732599
Your GP