
Let's Talk About MRSA
What is it? | Staphylococcus Aureus (SA) is a bacterium that is commonly found on the skin or in the nose of about 30% of healthy people and is generally harmless. However, it can cause infections if it enters wounds, cuts or abrasions.
Meticillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) are resitant to some antibiotics commonly used to treat these infections. |
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How did I get it? | It is not always clear why a patient has this organism. However, it does exist in the community and some people come into hospital with it on their skin without knowing they have it.
Most patients now have samples taken and tested in the laboratory to see if they have MRSA. This can be passed on to another person and enter the body through wounds or procedures and cause infection. |
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How is it passed on? | MRSA is commonly spread by hands, equipment and sometimes the environment. | |
Who is at risk? | All patients are at risk, but some are more vulnerable than others. | |
How can we stop the spread? |
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What can you do? |
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What does it mean for you and your family? |
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For further information: |