What are the Routes of MRSA infection?

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterium that can cause serious infections. It is spread through contact with infected people or objects.

The most common way to get MRSA is through direct contact with an infected person. This can happen through skin-to-skin contact, such as shaking hands or hugging, or through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or urine.

MRSA can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces. This can include items such as doorknobs, furniture, sheets, towels, or medical equipment.

In some cases, MRSA can be spread through the air. This can happen when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and the droplets containing the bacteria are inhaled by someone else.

MRSA can cause a variety of infections, including skin infections, soft tissue infections, bone infections, and blood infections. These infections can be serious and even life-threatening.

People who are at increased risk of getting MRSA include:

- People who are hospitalized

- People who have a weakened immune system

- People who have chronic diseases, such as diabetes or kidney disease

- People who live in crowded conditions

- People who use injection drugs

To help prevent getting MRSA, you can:

- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands

- Keep cuts and sores clean and covered

- Avoid contact with people who are infected with MRSA

- Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with MRSA

If you think you may have MRSA, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce your risk of developing serious complications.