MRSA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

MRSA is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a potentially dangerous type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics and may cause skin and other infections.

There are two types of MRSA: Community-Associated MRSA (CA-MRSA) and Health Care-Associated MRSA (HA-MRSA).

MRSA can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, especially if it comes into contact with an open wound, contact with items that an infected person has touched or through the respiratory tract. MRSA thrives in the gym and locker room, where kids share sports equipment, towels and tolietries. 

An infection may appear as an area of tiny red bumps, boils, or pimples that may resemble a spider bite, and the infection frequently is found on the stomach, buttocks, or legs.

Some strands of MRSA may cause more serious illness and require a trip to the hospital.

Wash the infected area thoroughly with antiseptic soap, apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and cover with a dry, clean bandage.

Still concerned? Contact the pediatrician — he or she will evaluate your child, determine if he or she has MRSA and prescribe appropriate treatment(s).

Schools, dorms, military barracks, child care centers and other crowded places have been associated with the spread of MRSA, although the infection can be spread anywhere.

Hand-washing may be your best defense.

Tell your child to not share sports equipment, personal items or towels. Keep any open wounds clean and covered with a dry, clean bandage.

You also may clean sports equipment with a disinfectant or bleach-water solution as an added precaution.