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In this topic of IBDP Biology, we will learn about Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
MRSA
- Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
- 1 in 3 carries SA on the surface of skin, or in our nose, without developing an infection.
- However, if SA bacteria get into the body through a break in the skin they can cause infections such as boils, abscesses, or impetigo.
- If they get into the bloodstream they can cause more serious infections.
- Most SA infections can be treated with antibiotics such as methicillin.
- However, SA is becoming increasingly resistant to most commonly used antibiotics.
- MRSA is no more infectious than other types of SA bacteria.
- However, MRSA infections are more difficult to treat due to the antibiotic-resistance of the bacteria.
- When bacteria encounter an antibiotic, such as methicillin, some of the bacteria may survive. Some bacteria mutate to develop a resistance to the antibiotic.
- The surviving antibiotic-resistant bacteria can multiply.
Spread
- When it comes to IBDP Biology, MRSA bacteria is usually spread through person-to-person contact with someone who has an MRSA infection, or who is colonised by the bacteria.
- It can also spread through contact with towels and sheets.
- MRSA infections are most common in people who are already in hospital.
- Those in hospital are more likely to develop MRSA infections.
- Exposure to antibiotics is more common.
- Those who are most at risk of MRSA include those who have:
- A weakened immune system, such as the elderly, newborn babies, or those with a long-term health condition such as diabetes, cancer or HIV/AIDS.
- An entry point for the bacteria to get into their body, such as a surgical wound, a catheter, or an intravenous tube.
Symptoms
- Most SA infections are skin infections.
- If SA bacteria are able to enter the bloodstream they can affect almost any part of the body. They can cause:
- septicaemia (blood poisoning),
- septic shock (widespread infection of the blood that leads to a fall in blood pressure and organ failure),
- severe joint problems (septic arthritis),
- bone marrow infection (osteomyelitis),
- internal abscesses anywhere within the body,
- of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal cord (meningitis),
- infection (pneumonia), and
- infection of the heart lining (endocarditis)
Prevention
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after visiting someone in hospital.
- Hospital staff should maintain very high standards of hygiene.
- Before and after caring for any patient, hospital staff should make sure they have thoroughly washed and dried their hands.
- Use fast-acting, special antiseptic solutions, like alcohol rubs or gels.
- When it comes to IBDP Biology, staff should wear disposable gloves when they have physical contact with open wounds.
That's the end of this topic.