STAPH INFECTION

Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacteria that lives on the skin or in the nose of most healthy people.  In fact, about 25% to 30% of the population have this present without infection or disease.  At times staph bacteria can cause infections.  These infections are usually treatable.  However, there are times when cases of staph infections are more serious and may require hospitalization or even surgery. 

 

Methicillin - resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of staph infection that is resistant to many types of antibiotics.  It is present in the community as well as in healthcare settings.  Oftentimes people are infected with this strain of staph infection after a recent hospitalization, surgery or if they have lived in a long-term care facility.  Others may catch community acquired MRSA and develop a rash or boil.  These infections need treatment but are rarely serious.

 

Many people, especially those who reside in close communities such as a college campus may question their risk of developing some type of staph infection.  At this time TCU does not see this as a major public health threat.   A recent report released by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) shows MRSA is relatively low in the age group of 18-34 year olds.  At TCU, personnel  practice regular preventive steps to help stop the spread of any communicable disease. 

 

Preventative measures to protect yourself against infectious disease, including MRSA are:

• Practice good hygiene– wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol based antibacterial hand gel
  Don’t share personal items like razors, towels, and clothing
• Keep all skin infections or cuts clean and bandaged until they are healed
• When using gym equipment– wipe down the machine before and after each use
• Clean up! Whether living in a residence hall or if you live off campus – make sure to keep your living conditions clean by using cleaning solutions on a regular basis
• Visit the Health Center if you think you have an infection

 

Providing yourself with as much information about MRSA and other communicable diseases is the first step in prevention and keeping yourself healthy.

If you have any health concerns please make sure to visit the TCU Health Center (257-7940) so that you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more information, please visit:
www.cdc.gov