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MRSA-Staph Superbug

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MRSA- Staph Superbug - What is it and can I get it?

This lens is to give some much needed information and common sense reminders about this rising health problem. Everyone is in danger of contracting MRSA. You must take it upon yourself to learn what it is and how you can protect yourself from it.

What treatment is available?

Usually Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. This may include intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization in the case of more serious infections, particularly if the person is using immuno-suppressive or cytotoxic drugs as part of their lupus therapy. Many times Bacterial infections can often be more serious and less common than viral infections, and unlike viral infections antibiotics can cure them. Bacterial infections include some forms of meningitis and pneumonia. Bacterial infections are generally treated with an antibiotic specifically chosen to destroy the infectious bacteria. Some Bacterial infections, like strep throat, are internal, while others are external, such as impetigo, a common Bacterial skin infection.

Bacterialinfections are actually more common during the winter. Viral infections are also more common in summer and fall. Bacterial infections are caused by the presence and growth of microorganisms that damage the host tissue. The extent of infection is generally determined by how many organisms are present and how toxic they are. Bacterial infections can also be treated with oral antibiotics and occasionally other oral medications. It is vitally important to follow the directions on the medicines to give them the best chance to work and clear up the infection. If the antibiotic is not taken to the full amount prescribed, you can develop what is known as rebound infection, which is worse than the original problem.

The Reality of Staph MRSA infections

What they can become without proper treatment.

Warning! this is graphic!

“MRSA is spread from person to person, through casual contact or through touching contaminated object”

Staph Superbug

What is it? and do I have it?

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a staphylococcus or "staph" bacteria that are resistant to many antibiotics. Staph bacteria are normally on your skin and in your nose, usually not causing problems. Staph bacteria only cause a problem when they cause infection. MRSA is unusual because it cannot be treated with certain antibiotics such as methicillin. MRSA is sometimes referred to as a staph superbug.

MRSA has become a huge concern for people in and out of the medical profession.

For medical staff, MRSA can sometimes go undetected until after exposure has already occurred. This is why Universal Precautions is always employed by staff. Meaning, everyone is suspected of having MRSA or any other kind of infection and precautions are taken, such as gloves, gowns or masks when directly caring for patients.

For non medical people, which is basically everyone else, it can be a daily problem. Your child could be exposed at school and then bring it home to everyone else. You could come in contact with it basically anywhere that people are. Of course, the more intimate you might be in your association, the higher your chances of infection.

MRSA is spread from person to person, through casual contact or through touching contaminated objects. It is frequently spread form the contaminated hands of someone that has MRSA. It is usually not spread through the air like the viruses, unless the person has MRSA pneumonia and is coughing.

It used to be that MRSA infected only people that had chronic illnesses. No longer, now MRSA is common in healthy people as well.

What to look for with a MRSA infection depends on where the infection is located. The area of skin may become red and tender. If you have pneumonia you may develop a cough. You may develop boils, abscesses or cellulitis. Sometimes people think they have been bitten by some kind of spider or insect.
Because MRSA infections can become serious, especially in people with chronic illness or suppressed immuno-systems, in a very short period of time, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

MRSA bacteria are occurring because antibiotics are used too often or not used correctly. Bacteria can outsmart antibiotics so they are no longer effective. This is why MRSA and other Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are sometimes called "super bugs".

The seriousness of your infection will determine the needed treatment. You may need to have the wound opened and drained. You will need antibiotics, possibly oral but usually by IV. You may need to be hospitalized.

If you are hospitalized you may be isolated in a private room or placed in a room with another MRSA positive patient. You will notice your doctors, nurses, and hospital workers will wear protective gear including gloves and gowns and if you have pneumonia and a cough, they will also wear masks.
If you are allowed to be treated at home, and your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, be sure to take all the medicine even if your symptoms seem to disappear. The Bacteria may just be hiding, not dead. If you have completed your antibiotic treatment and the wound is not improved or still shows some signs of infection, report this to your doctor right away. You probably will need IV antibiotic therapy.

You can see that this now common problem is serious but it has a solution. It does take diligence by your physician and compliance by you. But it is treatable.

YES! You can prevent MRSA!

If you get nothing else from this lens, get this! You can prevent this debilatating disease. Hand washing is the number one defense. Keep your skin intact. It is your first barrier to infection. If your skin is injured, KEEP IT CLEAN and keep your filthy hands away from any sore. Even mosquito bites have the potential to become infected with MRSA. If you keep your hands clean, you have most of the battle won.

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MRSA-Staph Superbug