The methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterium of the staphylococci group. Externally, it does not differ from the other bacteria of this species, but it is insensitive (resistant) to many antibiotics and therefore requires special treatment. Symptoms do not occur in all people who host these bacteria. However, the healthy carriers can still transmit the bacterium.
Transmission from person to person
MRSA is most commonly transmitted in hospitals or other care facilities, such as nursing homes, through person-to-person transmission. Most often this is done via the hands. This is the case when nursing staff do not sufficiently disinfect their hands between contacts with different patients, so that the bacterium is transmitted.
But also the patients among themselves or visitors can spread the bacteria further. MRSA can also be transmitted from the hands to other parts of the patient’s or another patient’s body. For example, the bacteria can be located in the nose and by contact of the hands with the nose the patient can transfer the bacteria to a wound, which can lead to infection.
Transmission through contaminated objects
MRSA can spread not only through people, but also through objects contaminated with bacteria. These include door handles, handles or towels. MRSA can also be transmitted through medical equipment, breathing tubes or catheters if they have not been carefully cleaned.
Air
Bacteria are usually not transmitted via the air we breathe, but may occur in exceptional cases when the patient’s immune system is severely weakened.
Animal to human
The transmission of MRSA from animals to humans is possible. The same applies to the transmission the other way round, from humans to animals. This applies to both farm animals and pets. In addition, MRSA also spreads in this way indirectly, for example from farmers or veterinarians who are infected with the animals, to their family members.
Baby
For a healthy baby, colonization with MRSA does not usually pose a health risk. Only if the baby has a weakened immune system or an open wound, infection can occur. If one of the risk factors is present, care should be taken to keep the baby away from MRSA carriers and to cover the wound thoroughly.
