What is Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)?

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria that has become resistant to many common antibiotics, including methicillin. This bacterium is very common; about one-third of people carry it on their skin or in their noses without it causing any health issues in most cases. However, when this bacterium does cause an infection, it can be difficult to treat due to its resistance to standard antibiotics [3].

MRSA infections are known in two main types: the first is Healthcare-Associated MRSA (HA-MRSA), which often occurs in hospitals and long-term care facilities. The second type is Community-Associated MRSA (CA-MRSA), which affects healthy people who have not been in a hospital recently, and often appears in the form of skin infections [2].

How does an MRSA infection spread?

MRSA bacteria primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact. They can also be transmitted by touching surfaces or objects carrying the bacteria, such as towels, razors, or shared sports equipment [1]. In healthcare settings, healthcare providers or visitors can carry the bacteria and transmit it to patients. Once the bacteria enter the body, they can spread to the bones, joints, blood, or any organ such as the lungs, heart, or brain [1].

Who is most at risk of infection?

Although anyone can get an MRSA infection, some groups are more vulnerable. This includes people who spend long periods in hospitals or long-term care facilities, those undergoing dialysis, or those receiving cancer treatment or medications that weaken their immune system [1]. Athletes, people who share personal items, children in daycare, military personnel, people who have recently undergone surgery, or those with skin injuries are also more susceptible to infection [1].

What are the symptoms of an MRSA infection?

Symptoms of an MRSA infection depend on the affected part of the body. MRSA skin infections often start as a red, swollen, and painful area on the skin, which may contain pus or other fluids. They may look like boils or spider bites [3]. These symptoms are more likely to appear if the skin is cut or scratched, providing a way for the bacteria to enter the body [1]. In severe infection cases that may spread to internal parts of the body, symptoms may include chest pain, coughing or shortness of breath, fatigue, fever and chills, a general feeling of illness, headaches, a rash, or wounds that do not heal [1].

How is MRSA diagnosed and treated?

The only way to confirm an MRSA infection is through examination and laboratory tests. The doctor will take a sample from the affected area, such as a swab of an open rash or sore, or a sample of blood, urine, sputum, or pus from an abscess. The sample is sent to the laboratory to identify the type of bacteria present and test its sensitivity to antibiotics to determine effective treatment [1].

For non-spread MRSA skin infections, draining the infection may be the only treatment required, and this must be done by a healthcare professional. Never try to open or drain an infection yourself [1]. In severe cases of infection, doctors prescribe appropriate antibiotics based on laboratory test results and the patient's medical history. Some types of infection may require surgical intervention to drain the affected areas [3]. It is very important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully, as antibiotic treatment may last for a long time, even after leaving the hospital [1].

For more information on prevention and treatment, you can visit Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Prevention and Treatment (Arabic).

When should you call a doctor?

You should contact a healthcare provider immediately if you have wounds that are getting worse instead of healing, or if you develop symptoms of an MRSA infection such as redness, swelling, pain, or fever, especially if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours [3]. If symptoms of severe infection appear, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Medical references

• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Basics
• MRSA