MRSA Infection (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
MRSA Infection Risk Factors
Risk factors for getting MRSA include playing contact sports, sharing towels or other personal items, having any condition that suppresses immune system function (for example, HIV, cancer, or chemotherapy), unsanitary or crowded living conditions (dormitories or military barracks), being a health care worker, and young or old age. Almost anything that leads to breaks in the skin (for example, scratches, abrasions, or punctures) will increase infection risk. MRSA carriers (people colonized by MRSA bacteria but who are not symptomatic) can pass the bacteria without knowing it. Hospitalized patients are at risk of having health care workers accidently transfer MRSA between patients. Unfortunately, hospitalized patients usually have sites (for example, IV lines, surgical incision sites) that are easily contaminated with MRSA. Consequently, direct contact with MRSA organisms on surfaces or on infected people are the highest risk factors for getting MRSA infections.
Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 11/5/2014
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Must Read Articles Related to MRSA Infection
Patient Comments & Reviews
The eMedicineHealth doctors ask about MRSA:
MRSA - Treatment
What was the treatment for your MRSA?
MRSA - Symptoms
What were the symptoms of your MRSA?
MRSA - Describe Your Experience
Please describe your experience with MRSA.