MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a type of staph bacteria resistant to many common antibiotics. It can cause serious infections that require specialized antibiotics for treatment.

Can staph infections spread from person to person?

Yes, staph bacteria can spread through direct skin contact, shared personal items, or contaminated surfaces. Proper hand hygiene and wound care are important for preventing transmission.

When does a staph infection become dangerous?

A staph infection becomes dangerous when it enters the bloodstream, bones, joints, heart, or lungs. Signs of a serious infection include high fever, rapid heartbeat, and worsening symptoms despite treatment.

InfectiousICD-10: A49.0Staph bacteria colonize about 30% of the population; invasive MRSA infects about 80,000 Americans annually

Staphylococcal Infection

Also known as: Staph infection, MRSA, Staphylococcus aureus infection

Staphylococcal infections are caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, commonly found on the skin and in the nose, which can cause a range of illnesses from minor skin infections to life-threatening conditions like bloodstream infections. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a particularly concerning strain that is resistant to many common antibiotics. Prompt treatment and proper hygiene are essential for managing these infections.

Symptoms

Red, swollen, and painful skin boils or abscesses

Warm area of skin that is tender to touch

Pus or drainage from a wound

Fever

Skin rash that resembles a spider bite

Cellulitis causing red, swollen skin

In severe cases, symptoms of bloodstream infection including high fever and low blood pressure

Causes

Infection by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria
Bacteria entering through cuts, scrapes, or surgical wounds
Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person
Contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

Risk Factors

Open wounds or surgical incisions
Weakened immune system
Hospital stays or healthcare facility exposure
Use of invasive medical devices such as catheters
Close contact in settings like gyms, locker rooms, or military barracks
Chronic skin conditions such as eczema

Diagnosis

Wound culture to identify the specific bacteria
Blood cultures for suspected bloodstream infections
Antibiotic sensitivity testing to guide treatment
Imaging studies if deep tissue infection is suspected

Treatment

Drainage of abscesses
Antibiotics appropriate for the strain, including MRSA-specific options
Wound care and dressing changes
Intravenous antibiotics for severe or invasive infections
Decolonization protocols with mupirocin and chlorhexidine washes

Prevention

Regular handwashing with soap and water
Keeping wounds clean and covered until healed
Not sharing personal items like towels or razors
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces

When to See a Doctor

Skin infection that is red, swollen, and warm with increasing pain
Fever accompanying a skin wound or infection
Infection that does not improve with initial antibiotic treatment
Recurrent skin infections

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Cellulitis

Infectious

Sepsis

Infectious

Impetigo

Infectious

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