| | What is MRSA?Answer:
MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics. Staph infections, including MRSA, occur most frequently among persons in hospitals and healthcare facilities (such as nursing homes and dialysis centers) who have weakened immune systems (see MRSA in Healthcare Settings). The MRSA bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of healthy people.
Staph bacteria is present in the nose of approximately 25% to 30% of the population without causing an infection. MRSA is present in about 1 percent of people.
Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. Most of these skin infections are minor (such as pimples and boils) and can be treated without antibiotics. However, staph bacteria also can cause serious infections (such as surgical wound infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia).
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Last Updated: 04/18/2008
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