World MRSA Day | About MRSA

HA-MRSA	CA-MRSA	Transmission	MRSA in Pets	MRSA in Athletes
About CA-MRSA

CA-MRSA - Community-Acquired MRSA
MRSA (staph) infections can cause illness and even death when contracted in the community in healthy individuals. 14% of all MRSA infections are now community-acquired. There are several strains of MRSA and the one now that is emerging is USA400 that can cause severe infections. CA-MRSA and HA-MRSA are co-mingling and some patients in healthcare facilities are contracting CA-MRSA strains.

TRANSMISSION
Causes of these infections in the community are:
• Touching contaminated surfaces and items
• Skin-to-skin contact with someone who is colonized with MRSA. MRSA can be sexually transmitted.

MRSA can enter through cuts and abrasions in the skin and some core investigators believe it can enter just through the skin alone. Some contributing factors to acquiring an infection are crowded living conditions and poor hygiene. MRSA loves warm and moist conditions so the frequency of transmission can be greater at:
• Gyms
• Daycare centers
• School fitness centers, locker rooms and off sports equipment
• Prisons
• Outbreaks have occurred in military camps.

MRSA can cause skin infections that may look like a spider bite, a pimple, rash or a boil. They may appear red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage. It is important to monitor closely, especially with children and if the eruption becomes larger seek immediate medical attention.

PREVENTION
• It is also important to clean and cover infections to prevent spreading to others.
• Do not share personal items such as towels, clothing, razors, bedding, etc.
• At the gym, wipe down equipment before and after use and do not touch your face.

Those most at risk for a community-acquired infection are:
• Athletes particpating in sports, especially contact sports.
• Those with a weakened immune system, including those that are living with HIV/AIDS.
• Living in crowded or unsanitary conditions.
• Contact with healthcare workers.

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