MRSA is contagious. It is a bacterium that can be transmitted from person-to-person, or it can even be picked up by touching a surface where the bacteria are present. Some people seem to be more susceptible to MRSA infections.
A "superbug" is a common term used to describe bacteria or other microorganisms that are resistant or have become resistant to common medical treatments. In this case, a Staph bacterium has become resistant to the most commonly used antibiotics.
In U.S. hospitals, MRSA causes more than 60% of Staph infections. Additionally, MRSA outbreaks occur in diverse types of people who are constantly in close contact, such as team players of contact sports, dormitory residents, inmates, and armed-services personnel.
The nose, armpits, groin, and buttocks are areas of our skin that contain large amounts of Staph bacteria. The nose and nasal passages can become colonized (harbor bacteria) with MRSA.
Using good hygiene, frequently washing hands, and avoiding contact with people known to have MRSA are the best ways to avoid the disease. There is currently no vaccine for MRSA.
Q:MRSA most often enters the body through droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Q:MRSA most often enters the body through droplets from coughing or sneezing.
The correct answer is: • False
Explanation:
MRSA is most often spread through direct contact with the bacteria and your skin. Prevent MRSA with proper hygiene such as hand washing, keeping wounds clean and covered, and not sharing personal hygiene items.
Q:MRSA can cause sepsis, which is an infection of the blood.
Q:MRSA can cause sepsis, which is an infection of the blood.
The correct answer is: • True
Explanation:
Any bacterial or viral infection can cause sepsis, which is a severe infection of the blood that can be life-threatening or fatal. Severe MRSA infections of the skin, sinuses, or upper respiratory system can overwhelm the body's immune defenses and lead to sepsis.
Q:A MRSA skin infection can often mimic a ________________.
Q:A MRSA skin infection can often mimic a ________________.
The correct answer is: C Spider bite
Explanation:
A MRSA skin infection can often mimic a spider bite. MRSA skin infections tend to cause pockets of infection called abscesses. These abscesses can become full of pus and can be very painful. These abscesses start out as very small pimple-like red bumps and they are often confused for insect or spider bites.
Q:MRSA infections can cause complications such as...
Q:MRSA infections can cause complications such as...
The correct answer is: D All of the above
Explanation:
Though most MRSA infections are on the skin, other body systems can become susceptible to MRSA infections. MRSA infection of the lungs can lead to pneumonia. Severe and rapidly spreading Staph infections of the skin can result in "flesh-eating" disease (necrotizing fasciitis). Any severe MRSA infection can result in death.
Q:The skin condition cellulitis can be caused by MRSA or by other bacterial types.
Q:The skin condition cellulitis can be caused by MRSA or by other bacterial types.
The correct answer is: • True
Explanation:
Cellulitis is an infection of the skin. The infected skin appears red, and is tender and warm to the touch. Any type of bacterial infection in the skin can cause cellulitis, including MRSA.
CDC. Definition of MRSA.
<http://www.cdc.gov/mrsa/index.html>
Tacoma Pierce County Health Department.
<http://www.tpchd.org/page.php?id=12>
Steinberg JP. Superbug: the fatal menace of MRSA [book review]. Emerg Infect Dis [serial on the Internet]. 2010 Oct.
<http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/16/10/10-1108_article>
CDC. Personal Prevention of MRSA Skin Infections.
<http://www.cdc.gov/mrsa/prevent/personal.html>
CDC. General Information About MRSA in the Community.
<http://www.cdc.gov/mrsa/community/index.html>
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the MedicineNet Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
