FACT SHEET

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA)

What is MRSA?
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. S. aureus that is resistant to
methicillin is also resistant to other penicillins and to cephalosporins.
How does MRSA affect people?
People can carry the bacteria in the nose or on the skin without having any illness. This is called
colonization and these individuals are "carriers" of MRSA. MRSA can also cause infections ranging
from skin sores to pneumonia. People with an infection and can pass the bacteria more easily to
other people.
Who is at risk for MRSA infections?
Healthy people are not usually at risk for MRSA disease. People with an increased chance of
getting MRSA include those over 65 years old, those with an open wound, or those with other
severe medical problems.
How is MRSA spread?
The bacteria are spread from person to person by direct contact. This means if a person has MRSA
on his skin (especially on the hands) and touches another person, he may spread MRSA. A person
may have MRSA on his hands as a result of being a carrier or from touching another person who is
a carrier or infected with MRSA.
What is the most important measure to prevent the spread of MRSA?
Handwashing is the most important measure to prevent the spread of MRSA. Washing with soap
and warm running water and friction for at least 15 seconds should be used. Proper handwashing
should be used after caring for sick people, after handling soiled bandages and clothing, and after
going to the toilet or changing diapers.
Can a person with MRSA be denied admission to a nursing home?
A person who is a carrier of MRSA should not be denied admission to a nursing home. MRSA,
along with other bacteria, may be present in any patient. If the person who is a carrier or has an
active infection is transferred to another facility, the receiving facility should be told of the MRSA
status in advance of the move.
Does a person with MRSA have to be separated from healthy individuals?
Living with a carrier of MRSA presents little or no risk for members of the household who are not at
high risk for MRSA infection. In a nursing home, a carrier patient can be placed with another
carrier patient or with a patient who is not at high risk for MRSA infection. A person with MRSA
infection should be seen by a doctor before being placed with other people in a household or
nursing home setting.
How is MRSA treated?
Carriers of MRSA usually do not need treatment. Those with MRSA infection are treated with
antibiotics. The patient’s physician makes treatment decisions.
See “Antibiotic Resistance Fact Sheet” for more information