MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It’s sometimes referred to as the ‘superbug’ because, as its name suggests, it can be resistant to antibiotics such as methicillin. However, this doesn’t mean it’s resistant to all types of antibiotics, and it can usually be treated successfully.
MRSA is from the staphylococcus aureus (SA) family, which 1 in 3 people carry harmlessly on the surface of their skin. This is known as being ‘colonised’ and it doesn’t cause any health problems.
However, if SA bacteria gets into the body through a break in the skin it can cause boils, abscesses, or impetigo (pus-filled blisters). If it gets into the bloodstream it can cause more serious infections. However, most SA infections, including MRSA, can be treated with antibiotics.
Read about MRSA in detail
Why is MRSA more common in hospitals?
MRSA doesn’t usually cause infection in healthy people, and although it’s possible for those outside hospital to become infected, MRSA infections are most common in people already in a hospital environment. This is because people in hospital are more likely to have an entry point for the bacteria to get into the body, such as a surgical wound or intravenous drip.
Who’s at risk?
Those most at risk of MRSA include those who have weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, newborn babies or those with long term health conditions, such as cancer. Others at risk include those with open wounds, catheters, a burn or cut on the skin, serious skin conditions such as leg ulcers, or those who frequently take antibiotics.
Although MRSA infections usually develop in those being treated in hospital, it is possible for hospital staff or visitors to become infected if they are in one of these higher risk groups. It is essential that visitors and staff follow strict hygiene rules to prevent the spread of MRSA.
How is it treated?
Most MRSA infections will require treatment in hospital and antibiotic treatment may need to continue for several weeks. If you are in hospital and have an MRSA infection, you may need to be moved to a private room to stop it spreading to others.
How is it passed on?
MRSA is usually passed on by human contact, most commonly spread via hands. Therefore hospital staff and visitors should always thoroughly wash and dry their hands before and after seeing a patient. Fast-acting alcohol rub or gel is now provided in most hospitals, with dispensers placed by patients’ beds and entrances to clinical areas.
Hospital staff should maintain very high standards of hygiene, especially when treating with patients with MRSA. As well as hand washing, staff should wear disposable gloves when they have contact with open wounds, such as changing a bandage. If you’re concerned about hygiene, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor, nurse or visitor if they have washed their hands.
What is C. diff (Clostridium difficile)?
Clostridium difficile (or C. diff) is a bacterium that’s present naturally in the gut of around 3% of adults. It doesn’t cause any problems for healthy people.
But, antibiotics used to treat other health conditions can upset the balance and ‘good’ bacteria in the gut. When this happens, C. diff can multiply and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea and fever.
Most people who get the symptoms of a C. diff infection usually make a full recovery. But, it can be fatal.
Read more about C. diff
How can I reduce the risk of getting MRSA and C. diff?
While in hospital, reduce your risk of infection by taking your own soap, flannel, towel and razor. Always wash your hands after using the toilet or commode, and before and after every meal. Ensure your bed area is regularly cleaned and report any unclean facilities to staff.
See our common health questions about MRSA
