What is a MRSA Outbreak?

An MRSA outbreak refers to the spread of multiple MRSA infections in one area. The illness qualifies as an outbreak if more cases than what would typically be considered normal are diagnosed within a short period of time. An MRSA outbreak is more likely to occur in places with unsanitary conditions. Schools, hospitals, and gyms typically have a higher number of MRSA outbreaks due to the large number of people who come and go each day. Prisons and nursing homes are generally also at higher risk for spreading of the bacteria.

MRSA, which stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a type of bacteria that is resistant to most commonly used antibiotics. This resistance may have formed as a result of excessive antibiotic use over the years to treat colds, flus, and other illnesses for which antibiotics are ineffective. In most cases, MRSA starts as a bump on the leg filled with pus. This bump may grow and turn into a painful sore resembling a boil. MRSA isn't always life-threatening, but it could be if the infection is allowed to spread into vital organs or the bloodstream.

There is a higher risk of an MRSA outbreak amongst athletes because of the nature of certain sports. People who play football or participate in wrestling generally have more MRSA infections than those who participate in other sports due to the amount of skin-to-skin contact required. MRSA can also live on surfaces, which means that the infection could easily spread if two players either intentionally or mistakenly shared the same towel after a game.

An MRSA outbreak in a hospital is likely because of the large number of patients, visitors, and workers. Many of the patients are at risk due to weakened immune systems and invasive hospital procedures that make it easy for the bacteria to get inside the body. Visitors and workers are at risk because of the likelihood that the bacteria is present in the facility. Most hospitals try very hard to keep conditions sanitary, but it is impossible to keep all bacteria at bay due to the number of sick people inside.

Some tips to help prevent an MRSA infection or an MRSA outbreak include regular hand washing with antibacterial soap and keeping open wounds covered with bandages. These tips are particularly important for a person to keep in mind when they are visiting any public place. A shower should be taken after participation in any type of sport, and towels should never be shared with others. Sanitizing surfaces and taking care to wash linens and towels in hot water with bleach is a recommended way to keep MRSA from spreading inside a home with an infected person.