MARION KERR CHECK-UPI'M DUE to go into hospital soon but am getting more and more nervous about it - not because of what's involved in the test but in case I pick up an infection such as MRSA. What exactly is this?
MRSA stands for a particular strain of the bacteria, staphylococcus aureus, that has become resistant to treatment with the antibiotic, methicillin. Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium often found on the skin and in the noses of healthy individuals.
It is estimated that 25-30 per cent of people have the bug living harmlessly on their skin. Problems can occur when it gets under the surface, through a cut or graze.
This can give rise to a number of skin infections including boils, abscesses and wound infections. MRSA is not usually a problem if you are well.
However, if the bacteria invades the bloodstream it can make its way to the organs or bones, causing serious infections such as septicaemia, endocarditis and osteomyelitis.
These types of infection are more likely to develop in those who are already unwell or have a compromised immune system.
How does the bug spread?
MRSA is spread from person to person. It can also be spread by an infected person touching sheets, bedclothes and dressings which then infect a vulnerable person. You are more likely to be infected if you are very ill or have wounds or open sores.
Drips and catheters inserted into the body may become contaminated with MRSA, causing infection. The broad problem of antibiotic-resistant superbugs has been linked to the overuse of antibiotics.
As bacteria are adept at changing their structure in response to repeated exposure to antibiotics, they should be used only for serious infection and never to treat viral illness.
How is it treated?
MRSA is treated with antibiotics but the range available is limited because of resistance. Hand washing and good hospital hygiene are important in preventing the spread of the infection.
All hospital staff, patients and visitors should wash their hands regularly and use hand sanitisers provided on the wards.
Patients with MRSA must be treated in isolation to prevent the spread of the infection.