MRSA-Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus. Have you been infected?

Tweet

There are two strains of MRSA. CA-MRSA and HA-MRSA. The CA strain is community acquired and the HA strain is hospital acquired. CA MRSA: Most at risk are those with weakened immune systems, the elderly and children and those who use community gyms or participate in close contact sports and share towels. Military training centers and prisons are also areas of risk due to confined living arrangments. There is a new strain reported in Boston and San Fransico amongst gay men. HA MRSA: The Association of Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology report out of every 1000 hospital patients, 46 will contract MRSA. Best tips for keeping yourself infection free if you're having surgery still remains hand washing! Ask those who have active cough or runny nose to stay at least six feet away from you. Have a family member or friend with you at hospital to watch that healthcare workers wash hands before treatment while you are under anesthesia. It is not rude to ask and demand this of those caring for you. Long Term Care workers who are exposed to staph infections on a regular basis can be carriers without and active infection. They do put their family at risk by being a carrier. I shower as soon as I get home from work and keep my uniforms separate from family laundry. Those in LTC or hospitals with invasive devices like catheters, feeding tubes & IV's are at most risk for contracting staph that is resistant to antibiotics. Next are those who have had recent use of Cipro and Cephalosporin antibiotic treatment. Symptoms: A small red bump or pimple or what appears to be an insect bite on your skin which can spread to underlying tissues and organs. MRSA can infect the lungs and heart and other internal organs. Treatment: Vancomycin treatment either oral or IV. Some strains are becoming resistant to vancomycin. MRSA infection is very serious...seek treatment immediately if you suspect staph. Lower your risk for infection by proper hygeine and awareness of risks such as close contact with people in the public. Be proactive if you must have surgery or other invasive treatments such as lab work, surgery or the placement of catheter or feeding tube, make sure healthcare workers WASH HANDS! Ok, now that I have scared you silly....have you had MRSA, or been exposed to MRSA? What do you do to protect yourself from acquiring ANY type of infection when out in the community? Do you stay away from gyms and contact sports for fear of contracting MRSA? What are you thoughts on this health risk?