Kissing | MRSA transmission

Kissing

MRSA is transmitted through direct body contact, in principle also through kissing. Since MRSA colonization usually has no effect in healthy people, there is not a high risk of infection when kissing an MRSA carrier. In most cases, the partner is only temporarily colonized by the bacteria if he or she does not already have them without symptoms. However, care should be taken with open wounds in or around the mouth, as the bacteria can enter the body and cause an infection.

Incubation period

The incubation period, i.e. the time between the colonization of a person with bacteria and the onset of symptoms, can vary greatly. Many people, although colonized by MRSA, do not have a bacterial infection. This often only occurs when the immune system is weakened. This can also be the case after a few months or even years. After an infection, i.e. when the bacteria have entered the body, it then takes about 4 to 10 days before the symptoms appear.

Pregnancy

MRSA colonization of an expectant mother usually has no effect on the baby during pregnancy. No correlation between the MRSA colonization of the mother and the miscarriage rate could be detected. During the breastfeeding period, an MRSA-populated mother should make sure that her hands are thoroughly cleaned before breastfeeding and that hygiene is strictly adhered to when using an abpump device.

Risk of infection

Patients with an MRSA infection are contagious as long as the bacteria can be detected. The risk of infection is particularly high if symptoms of the infection already occur. But carriers of the bacteria who do not show symptoms can also transmit MRSA to other people.

People with a weakened immune system are particularly susceptible to infection with MRSA. But the risk is also increased in chronically ill people, for example when they have to undergo dialysis.Diabetics and people with catheters are also very susceptible to MRSA infection, as are people with an open wound that provides easy access for the bacteria to enter the body. Advanced age poses an additional risk of infection. In healthy people who carry MRSA on their skin, the risk of infection is very low.