Controlling the Spread of MRSA Superbug*

Staphylococcus aureus bacteria are commonly found on the human body, but do not often cause infection. They can, however, enter the body through a cut, bug bite, or other break in the skin and cause infection. They can also enter the bodies of adults or children with compromised immune systems, such as older adults, children, or HIV patients, and cause pneumonia. Staph bacteria can also multiply on food, enter the body when the food is consumed, and cause infection.

There are multiple ways that these bacteria can cause infection, but these infections are generally only found in people with compromised immune systems MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a mutated form of the staph bacterium. It is resistant to many antibiotics, and therefore very difficult to kill.

This means that treating a patient who has contracted MRSA is a difficult and lengthy process. It is therefore essential to take steps to control the spread of MRSA. Preventing the spread of MRSA is much easier than trying to cure patients after an outbreak.

Measures taken to control the spread of a disease from one patient to another are known as "infection control".

Proper infection control techniques can help to contain MRSA bacteria, and prevent the spread of the disease from patient to patient, or from patients to hospital staff.

An essential part of MRSA infection control is contact isolation. Contact isolation is the process of making sure that everyone who is in contact with a contaminated patient is extraordinarily careful about washing their hands and not touching items that may have been contaminated by the patient. Contact with the patient is limited to essential staff, to limit exposure to the bacteria. A

ll surfaces that come into contact with the patient or their room - linens, mops, dishes, etc. must be sterilized.  If a hospital has multiple patients with MRSA infections, it may be advisable to move them all to a contained unit, and designate it as an isolation unit. This limits their exposure to other patients, and keeps exposure to the bacteria at a minimum.

Techniques for Controlling the Spread of MRSA

If you work in a healthcare, daycare, or school setting, it is important that you minimize your chances of exposure to MRSA, as well as other harmful bacteria and viruses. You can do this by following the following guidelines  

Wash your hands before and after eating, drinking, sneezing, touching your hands or face, toileting, and any type of physical contact. Washing your hands is the first and most important preventative measure for controlling the spread of disease.

If you work in a medical setting, keep infected patients away from non-infected patients. Limit exposure to these patients to essential staff.

Wear disposable gowns and gloves when interacting with infected patients MRSA survives on inanimate objects. Disinfect all surfaces frequently.

Preventative measures and good hygiene are essential in preventing the spread of disease. MRSA is extremely difficult to treat once it is contracted. Prevent the spread of MRSA by following these preventative measures. Educate yourself.

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