In the December 2007 Communicator, we discussed recent outbreaks of MRSA, the symptoms and risk factors. This issue, we take a look at treatments for MRSA—and more importantly, prevention measures to protect against transmission.

Can MRSA be cured?

Fortunately, the nickname “superbug” is something of a misnomer, because in most cases MRSA can be treated with certain types of antibiotics. If a patient has a suspicious skin condition, the physician first takes a sample from the wound for diagnosis by a lab. Treatment of a skin lesion often consists of opening and draining the wound. (This should only be done by a healthcare provider!) Once the lab results are in, the doctor may then prescribe an oral antibiotic from a class that is still effective against the particular strain of MRSA. It is important to take your medication as recommended, and finish all doses. If the bacteria has already entered the bloodstream, the patient may be hospitalized and receive intravenous antibiotics and other treatment.

What’s the best way to avoid contracting MRSA?

MRSA is transmitted most frequently by direct skin-to-skin contact, but the bacteria may also survive on contaminated items. The best way to avoid infection is to practice good hygiene:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• If you have a cut or scrape, keep it covered until it heals.
• Never share towels, razors and other personal items.
• If you exercise in a public facility or participate in contact sports, shower well after working out, and wear rubber sandals in the shower.
• Be sure the facility follows standard disinfecting practices, such as cleaning sports equipment regularly with an antiseptic solution.

What’s the best way to prevent the spread of MRSA?

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities have protocols in place for preventing the spread of MRSA. And in the community, individuals who are diagnosed with the infection should also follow a set of precautions to avoid spreading the germ:

• Keep skin sores covered with a clean, dry bandage.
• Wash your hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after touching the wound or bandages, and encourage others in the household to do so as well.
• Don’t share personal items such as razors, towels or clothing.
• Sanitize soiled sheets, towels, and clothes by washing in hot water and laundry detergent. Drying fabrics in a hot dryer, rather than air-drying, also helps kill bacteria.

Where can I find out more?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers comprehensive information and updates about Community-Associated MRSA, as well as the healthcare-associated strain.

The Mayo Clinic consumer website includes the article Infectious Disease: MRSA Infection with in-depth information about the disease.

The New York Times includes a collection of articles and updates about MRSA and is a good source of recent news about the topic.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is another good source of comprehensive information about MRSA.

Researchers are hard at work studying how organisms such as the staph bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics. This new information may lead to effective new antimicrobial drugs, even a vaccine someday. Meanwhile, protect yourself against MRSA and other germs by practicing sensible sanitary precautions, taking care of your overall health, and being alert for any symptoms of infection.

The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. If you have questions about preventing MRSA infection, or if you think you may have contracted or come into contact with the bacteria, contact your physician or other healthcare provider.