Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Posted October 22, 2007

Staphylococcus or "staph" is a group of bacteria often carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Staph can cause serious infections (such as surgical wound infections, skin and bloodstream infections and pneumonia). MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus that is resistant to methicillin (and other related antibiotics).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that the incidence rate for invasive MRSA in the United States is 31.8 per 100,000 population. According to the Iowa surveillance system, the incidence rate is 10 per 100,000 in Iowa.

Settings in which there is close contact between multiple people increase the risk of MRSA transmission. Transmission of MRSA has been reported among those in correctional facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and among competitive sports participants and child care attendees.

To prevent infection with MRSA, you can do the following:

• Wash hands regularly
• Cover all draining wounds
• Health care workers should learn about local resistance patterns to ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy
• Do not to share personal items
• Clean sports equipment immediately after use

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_Invasive_FS.html.