MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that causes skin and other kinds of infections. Sometimes called “the superbug,” MRSA is resistant to certain antibiotics, but several antibiotics still work. It is estimated that Americans visit the doctor more than 12 million times per year to address potential skin infections, many of which are caused by MRSA. 

Because skin infections caused by MRSA are increasing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a new education campaign to help Americans better recognize and prevent MRSA.

What are the signs and symptoms of MRSA infections? Most staph skin infections, including MRSA, appear as a bump or infected area on the skin that may be:

Red	Warm to the touch
Swollen	Full of pus or other drainage
Painful	Accompanied by a fever

If you or someone in your family experiences these signs and symptoms, cover the area with a bandage and contact your healthcare professional. It is especially important to contact your healthcare professional if signs and symptoms of an MRSA skin infection are accompanied by a fever.

There are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from MRSA skin infections:

• Step 1: Know the signs and symptoms of MRSA and get treatment early.
• Step 2: Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered.
• Step 3: Encourage good hygiene such as cleaning hands regularly.
• Step 4: Discourage sharing of personal items such as towels and razors.

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• Our Home Our Planet
• Coping with Allergies