Issue Date: March 29, 2009
Superbad superbug
MRSA packs a potent punch.
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MRSA is impervious to common antibiotics.
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Among the superbugs that concern infectious disease specialists, one of the worst out there is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA (pronounced mersa). This staph infection, which occurs in about 94,000 people each year and kills 19,000, is difficult to treat because it's impervious to common antibiotics. It has become more prevalent because of society's overuse of antibiotics, which kills off less hardy bacteria and leaves behind more virulent strains.
MRSA mainly infects folks with weakened immune systems. But healthy people are affected, too -- especially those who are in close contact with others, such as in gyms and schools. And they're even more at risk if they have cuts or abrasions. That makes MRSA a problem for groups such as sports teams. Such cases often first appear as boils or bumps that resemble bug bites.
MRSA spreads rapidly, and treatment depends on where and how widespread the infection is. Draining abscesses, cleaning out wounds and treating with intense antibiotics can be lifesaving.
Important: If you develop an unusual skin infection that's too red or tender, go see your doctor to determine whether you have MRSA.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic, writes HealthSmart every week.
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