Staphylococcus aureus, often called “staph”, are bacteria commonly carried on the skin and in the nose of healthy people. Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. Staph can be spread by skin to skin contact or coming in contact with surfaces contaminated by infected skin. These skin infections can appear as a boil, rash, fluid-filled blister, or infected cut that can be red, painful, swollen, and draining and should be evaluated by a physician. Sometimes, staph can become resistant to an antibiotic, like Methicillin. This particular type of staph is called Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Although Methicillin is not useful in treating this type of staph infection, other antibiotics may be used.
The best way to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses is to practice frequent hand washing. If soap and water are not available use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Other ways to prevent the spread of germs are to keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage; avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages; do not share personal items such as towels, razors, and toothbrushes; and clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces/objects.
For more information, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca.html