Staph Infections Making a Comeback?
Methicillin resistant staph aureus (MRSA) – the strain of staph bacteria that is resistant to common antibiotics – is turning up more often in healthy young people and children.
Anyone can carry MRSA on their skin. Usually it does not cause harm.
But infection can happen when there is a break in the skin (whether an insect bite or a cut) that allows the bacteria to enter. “The germ travels by skin contact, from person to person or from one part of your body to another,” says Chris Peltier, MD, assistant director of Community Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s. Kids who get bug bites or scrapes, and those who wear diapers, can be more susceptible to infection. You may first notice a bump or a pimple under the skin with redness or pain; call your doctor if you spot such a bump.
Most MRSA infections are localized and treatable with drugs such as Bactrim™ or clindamycin.
The best way to minimize risk of MRSA infection is to teach all family members to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
