MRSA

MRSA

What is MRSA?

MRSA (sometimes referred to as the superbug) stands for
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (SA). SA is a
bacterium from the Staphylococcus aureus family.

What causes MRSA?

About one in three of us carries SA on the surface of our
skin, or in our nose, without developing an infection. This is
known as being colonised by the bacteria. However, if SA
bacteria get into the body through a break in the skin they
can cause infections such as boils, abscesses or impetigo.
If they get into the bloodstream they can cause more serious
infections.

How is it treated?

Most SA infections can be treated with antibiotics such as
methicillin (a type of penicillin). However, SA is becoming
increasingly resistant to most commonly used antibiotics.
MRSA bacteria are those types of SA bacteria that are
resistant to methicillin (and usually to some of the other
antibiotics that are normally used to treat SA infections).

MRSA is no more infectious than other types of SA bacteria.
However, MRSA infections are more difficult to treat due to
the antibiotic resistance of the bacteria. Antibiotics can still
be used to treat MRSA, the infection may simply require a
much higher dose over a much longer period, or the use of
an antibiotic to which the bacteria is not resistant.

Further support and advice

MRSA Action UK is a charity that aims to raise public
awareness about MRSA and its impact on our lives. They
also campaign for safer healthcare standards and support
sufferers and dependents. If you would like their help and
support, or simply more information about MRSA then this is
a great place to start.