A MRSA skin infection, or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus infection, is a serious infection that might be difficult to cure with antibiotics. This bacteria not only causes skin infections but other types of infections as well. The staph bacterial infection is commonly referred to as the skin-eating disease because it has become resistant to antibiotics. A MRSA skin infection is more likely to occur in a hospital setting than in other environments.
This skin condition is highly contagious. It is spread by skin-to-skin contact even when an infection is not present. When an infection does occur, the bacteria typically enters the skin through a scratch or puncture wound. A MRSA skin infection is caused by bacteria that can destroy normal, healthy cells, causing them to explode. Over time, this can do considerable damage to the immune system.
The symptoms of a MRSA skin infection include pus-filled blisters, vomiting, and diarrhea. Toxic shock syndrome can also occur, which is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition. Ordinarily, all of these symptoms can be treated with antibiotics, but because MRSA is antibiotic resistant, it sometimes cannot be treated.
It is possible for a person to carry the staphylococcus bacteria on the skin without knowing it. In fact, people can carry the bacteria either in their noses or on their skin. If there is no skin break or wound, these carriers will not become infected, but the carrier can still infect other people. A break in the skin and physical contact with a carrier creates a perfect scenario for a MRSA skin infection.
The best way to avoid a MRSA skin infection is to be aware of the way it spreads. MRSA can be spread by coming into contact with an infected person, touching a contaminated object, or coming in contact with a carrier. People who live in crowded conditions or people who partake in certain contact sports that include wrestling are more likely to acquire this infection.
Any open wounds should be cleaned thoroughly and covered with a bandage. Items like towels, razor blades, and toothbrushes should never be shared. After any contact sport, the skin should be washed with an anti-bacterial soap and any wounds should be cleaned with alcohol.