MRSA

If an individual is already carrying the MRSA bacterium, the person may be attacked when there is a cut or lesion in the skin. Nevertheless, the spread of this infection is primarily related to the immediate surroundings.

The spread of MRSA primarily occurs in hospitals where most people already have a weakened immune system. Medical products like intravenous tubing or catheter can behave as paths for MRSA to enter the body. MRSA carriers may also spread the infection in long-term medical care facilities, even if they are not infected themselves. In such conditions, the infection is referred to as (Hospital Associated) HA-MRSA.

The other main reason for spread of MRSA is through direct skin experience of the infected person. This can occur due to:

• Residing in unsanitary and/or crowded conditions like in day care facilities, prisons and training camps
• While participating in various kinds of contact sports
• Unprotected sexual activity

In these situations the illness is called (Community Associated) CA-MRSA