Recent media reports have caused an increased concern over MRSA, a bacterial infection. MRSA usually presents as a localized skin infection, such as a pimple or boil. Treatment normally consists of hot compresses, antibiotics and incision & drainage of the area if needed. Many people naturally carry this bacteria on their skin but they do not get ill. However, a break in the skin, even an opening too small to see, can allow the bacteria to cause infection.

ECU Student Health does see, evaluate and treat MRSA infections and has not experienced any recent increase in cases. Students with MRSA should:

• Keep all wounds covered
• Clean your hands: practice good hand washing with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after touching or changing dressings
• Do not share personal items: avoid sharing of items that may come in direct contact with the wound, such as towels or linens

Students concerned about getting MRSA from others should simply use good hygiene practices (hand washing!!!), keep all personal wounds clean and covered, avoid direct contact with other people's wounds, and keep surfaces clean that touch skin (such as gym equipment). MRSA is not airborne and cannot be spread easily unless contact with infectious material (pus, drainage, dressings, etc) occurs. Anyone concerned about a wound, lesion or boil should see a health care provider for evaluation.

Keep in mind that MRSA is not uncommon and Student Health will be glad to answer questions or provide more information.

What is MRSA? MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. There are certain staph bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. MRSA is resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics such as methicillin, oxacillin, penicillin, and amoxicillin. About 25% to 30% of the population is colonized (bacteria is present but not causing an infection) with staph and approximately 1% is colonized with MRSA.

What is Staphylococcus aureus (staph)? Staphylococcus aureus is often referred to as "staph". It is a bacteria that is commonly located on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Sometimes, staph can cause an infection. Staph bacteria are the most common causes of skin infection in the United States. Most of these infections are minor (such as pimples or boils) and can be treated with antibiotics. Staph can, however, cause serious infections such as surgical wound infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia.

Who typically gets staph or MRSA infections? Staph infections, including MRSA, occur most frequently among those in hospitals and healthcare facilities (such as nursing homes or dialysis centers) with weakened immune systems.

Staph and MRSA can also cause infections in persons outside of hospitals and healthcare facilities. MRSA infections in those who have not been recently hospitalized (in the past year) or had a medical procedure (dialysis, surgery, catheters) is referred to as CA-MRSA infection (CA: community-acquired). MRSA infections in the community are usually manifested as skin infections such as pimples or boils, and occur in otherwise healthy people.

How common are staph and MRSA infections? Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infection in the United States and commonly cause pneumonia, surgical wound infections, and bloodstream infections. MRSA most commonly occurs among patients in hospitals or other healthcare settings but is becoming more common in the community setting.

What does a staph or MRSA infection look like? Staph bacteria, including MRSA, can cause skin infections that look like a pimple or boil and can be red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage. More serious infections can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and surgical wound infections.

What should I do if I think I have a MRSA infection? See your healthcare provider and follow the steps mentioned above to prevent spreading infection.

Are MRSA infections treatable? Yes. Most staph and MRSA infections are treatable with antibiotics. If you are given an antibiotic, take all of the doses, even if the infection is getting better, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.

Many staph skin infections may be treated by draining the abscess or boil and may not require antibiotics. Drainage should only be done by a healthcare provider.

Information derived from the Centers for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca_public.html