Dauphin County Alerts Public about the Dangers of MRSA - Updated 10/31/07

From Paxtang

Dauphin County Alerts Public about the Dangers of MRSA

The Dauphin County Commissioners and the state Department of Health are raising awareness about MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics, which occurs most frequently among persons in hospitals and healthcare facilities or persons who have weakened immune systems.

Certain risk factors have been associated with the spread of MRSA, which include close skin-to-skin contact, openings in the skin, such as cuts or abrasions, contaminated items and surfaces, crowded living conditions, and poor hygiene.

The most common symptoms of Staph or MRSA infections in the community are usually manifested as skin infections, such as pimples and boils and can be red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage. More severe infections may cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, or surgical wound infections.

If you believe you have a Staph or MRSA infection, see your healthcare provider immediately to prevent further complications.

For more information about MRSA, visit the Centers for Disease Control website: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca_public.html#8#8