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What Are the Dangers of the MRSA Virus?

The MRSA virus is classified by two types, Healthcare MRSA (HA-MRSA) and Community MRSA (CA-MRSA). The names reflect how the virus is contracted. HA-MRSA is generally contracted in hospital and other treatment facilities. CA-MRSA is contracted from sources in the community. CA-MRSA infections are increasing and can pose a danger to a larger number of people. Early detection, good hygiene and proper treatment can help reduce the number of MRSA cases.

  1. Identification

    • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is what is known as MRSA. This dangerous condition is resistant to most antibiotics normally used for staph infection and can develop into serious skin or other infections. The bacteria associated with MRSA generally lives on the skin and can exist in the nasal passages It causes an infection when it enters the body through open wounds or infected medical equipment such as breathing tubes.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of skin infections can include a fever along with bump that is red or swollen and painful or warm when touched. The more serious MRSA infection may cause fever, chills, malaise, headache, chest pain and breathlessness. Because of the dangers associated with MRSA and its potential to spread or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice if you suspect you have a staph infection that can lead to MRSA.

    Effects

    • Identifying MRSA symptoms and seeking treatment as soon as possible can lessen the chance of a more serious effect that can involve the heart, bone or blood. Less serious MRSA infection is generally localized, such as a small boil, and if treated swiftly can be controlled by draining the infected area, usually in a physician's office and then followed by a round of antibiotic treatment. However, apart from the obvious dangers of the virus, according to the National Institute of Health, "MRSA-related pneumonia and blood poisoning are associated with high death rates."

    Considerations

    • The spread of the MRSA virus is a serious health concern. Since MRSA has the potential to cause death, exercising precautions to minimize contact is imperative. People with compromised immune systems are often affected more seriously by MRSA than their more healthy counterparts.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Prevention of MRSA requires a conscious effort. If infected or dealing with others that could be infected, the following steps can help you avoid contracting the MRSA virus: frequent hand washing, keeping fresh, clean bandages over wounds, wearing protective clothing or gloves when dealing with infected bandages if assisting with treatment, sanitize bathing areas and avoid whirlpools and saunas that are used by others. If you or someone you share toiletries with is infected with MRSA do not use each others personal items.

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