MRSA Overview

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

What is MRSA?

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, or MRSA, is a type of bacteria that is resistant to some forms of antibiotics, particularly the cillin class of medications. Staph aureus is a common bacteria found on our skin and doesn’t usually present a problem.Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus,

For many years, it was thought to be an exclusively human condition. But MRSA has been reported in horses, dogs, cats, rabbits, sheep and cattle. There are two ways to contract MRSA: hospital- acquired (HA-MRSA) and community-acquired (CA-MRSA). HA-MRSA is defined as an individual who has contracted the bacteria after being hospitalized or who has had a medical procedure preformed. CA-MRSA is contracting the bacteria without being exposed to a medical facility. Risk areas for CA-MRSA include athletic facilities, child care facilities or schools, and veterinary hospitals.

RELATED: Toxoplasmosis Overview

Transmission

MRSA is primarily transmitted by direct contact, but may also be spread by indirect contact with sports equipment, towels, bedding and contaminated bandages. In the veterinary community, it has been estimated that up to 10 veterinary staff members are colonized with MRSA.

Symptoms

MRSA symptoms in animals are similar to humans. Usually, it manifests as some sort of skin infection, such as an abscess or pus-filled sore. People often think they’ve been bit by a spider. To diagnose MRSA in humans and animals, a swab of the infected area is sent to a laboratory for bacterial culturing and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Treatment involves a course of oral antibiotics. It’s important to place an absorbent bandage on the affected area if the wound is draining.

Prevention

Preventing contamination is as easy as practicing excellent hygiene. The best way to practice good hygiene is by washing your hands. Use warm water and soap, thoroughly washing in between fingers, for a minimum of 30 seconds. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also effective in lieu of a sink. Avoid touching mucus membranes, such as your nose or eyes, until you’ve properly washed your hands.

If you’re changing bandages on an animal with infected wound(s), wear gloves and always wash your hands after properly disposing of the contaminated bandages. Your veterinary assistant can provide further information on household hygiene. Above all, remember, basic hygiene is the best prevention.

For more information, click here.

You may also like: Pain Management for Dogs