MRSA is the acronym for methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus. This particular bacterial strain causes several kinds of infections in the body that usually manifest themselves as skin diseases. They can be rashes, boils, abscesses, redness, etc. knowing what can cause these infections is important before treating them.
Common Causes Of MRSA
The Causative Agent
When the bacteria MRSA enter the body it causes the diseases condition. The disease resistance can be passed from one bacterium to another through plasmids that carry the disease resistance gene. There are around five genes that have been identified with the antibiotic resistance. As the plasmid replicates, the copies can be transferred to other bacteria giving them this ability. Most infections take place either through direct contact or indirect contact with the infected persons. Therefore, it is important that one maintains proper hygienic practices at all times, especially at public places.
Through Carriers
Another method of transmission is through carriers. Carriers are persons who have the MRSA but do not show symptoms of the disease. The bacteria colonize in the carrier’s body, and are present on the skin or in the nasal cavity. When you come in contact with such persons, you can contract the disease.
Through Hospitals
HA-MRSA or healthcare associated MRSA, as the name suggests in often seen in hospitals. These bacteria contain the genes I-III responsible for giving them the antibiotic resistance ability. Hospitals have a large number of people consisting of staff and patients where it is easy to catch an infection. Also, most patients in a hospital either have open wounds, cuts or bruises which make it easier to catch MRSA from an infected person. Additionally, most patients in hospitals are either old and/or have lower immunity making them easy targets to catch the disease from carriers or another source.
Contaminated Surfaces
When people inflicted with the MRSA associated condition and they touch surfaces like tables, chairs, and other items, it puts other healthy people at risk, who are more likely to touch these surfaces. MRSA bacteria are not found in the environment, but spreads through touch, direct or indirect. However, one must also know that not everyone who touches the contaminated surfaces gets the disease. The chances are greater when you have an open wound, cuts or scratches. So make sure you always bandage or cover your wounds, especially when you are in the vicinity of a patient.
Community Associated-MRSA or CA-MRSA
This strain of MRSA contains the genes IV-V for antibiotic resistance. This is far less common than the hospital associated MRSA. However, there has been a rise in the number of cases, with this particular strain. Usually people who live in a crowded area or facility have a risk of contracting it. Also, people who play a lot of contact sports or share items in a gym or training centre are also at risk. In addition, people who are not hygienic and don’t practice good hygienic habits are much more likely to get infected. Therefore it is important to wash hands regularly with soap or alcohol based hand wash. Lack of cleanliness is a major cause for spread of the condition from one person to another.
