In his monthly column, Dr. Kent Herbert answers your questions related to health care matters. Simply submit your question to stefaniw@newfalconherald.com. It’s your chance to ask the doc.Question: I have heard a lot recently about MRSA infections. Should I be concerned?Answer: MRSA stands for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus (staph) Aureus and is a bacteria that can cause infections of the skin, lungs and bloodstream, among other places. Many infections, particularly of the skin, are from non-resistant staph aureus, which is far less serious. MRSA is of particular concern because it is resistant to many common antibiotics, so it is difficult to treat and does not respond to typical antibiotics. Resistant bacteria, such as MRSA, are more common today because of factors like the excessive use of antibiotics, overcrowding and hospitalizations.The first case of MRSA was identified in 1968, and by 1990 it accounted for 25 percent of all staph aureus cases. By 1999, it accounted for 50 percent of cases. Staph infections have always been common, but because many of these infections are caused by MRSA, they are now more serious, aggressive and difficult to treat.Outside of the hospital, the most common MRSA infections are skin infections. These can look like boils or pustules and are red, swollen and painful. They may also have pus or other drainage. This type of skin infection usually occurs where there is visible skin trauma, such as cuts, scrapes or rashes; or in areas where hair grows. MRSA skin infections can occur even in healthy people and are usually treated with drainage of the infection and may or may not need antibiotics. MRSA infections can occur in other areas, such as in the lungs, blood and bone. These types of infection are more serious, but also more uncommon, and they typically occur in people with other medical issues.MRSA is usually transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with items or surfaces – towels and bandages, for example – that have touched another person’s infection. There are several other factors that increase the risk of transmission and these are referred to as the 5Cs. These include being in a crowded environment, such as a school; and frequent skin-to-skin contact (wrestling is a good example). Other factors include having compromised skin, such as cuts or scrapes; touching contaminated items and surfaces; and a lack of cleanliness. Clearly, many of these apply to certain settings, like schools, college dorms, households, jails and day care centers; and MRSA infections are more common in these areas.There are several things that can be done to prevent infections from MRSA. First, it is important to practice good hygiene. Keep your hands clean by washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and showering immediately after exercise. It is also important to cover skin trauma, such as scrapes or cuts, with a clean, dry bandage until it is healed. Next, one should avoid sharing personal items, such as towels or razors that may come into contact with bare skin. Use a towel or other barrier between bare skin and shared equipment like weight lifting benches. Finally, it is important to keep a clean environment by cleaning surfaces regularly.Most MRSA infections can be avoided by practicing these measures and avoiding high-risk areas. However, if you develop a red, tender, swollen area on your skin or have other signs of an active infection, it is important to see your doctor for quick evaluation and treatment. Most MRSA infections are fairly easily treated if they are caught early but can become very serious if they are neglected.Dr. Kent HerbertBoard-Certified Family PhysicianFalcon Family Medicine7641 McLaughlin RoadFalcon, CO 80831(719) 494-2006(719) 494-8448 faxwww.FalconFamilyMedicine.com
