How Does MRSA Superbug Spread?

Knowing how MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is spread is beneficial in preventing acquiring the infection and spreading the bacterial once it is acquired. MRSA can be spread from direct or indirect contact with the bacteria. Some people are able to fight off the infection and others will not be able to. Untreated it can spread into the body as the superbug multiplies and grows.

Spread by Direct Contact

Coming in direct contact with a wound that is infected with MRSA is one ways that it spreads. If the person who is exposed to the bacteria has an open sore, prick, burn, or other skin condition that causes the skin to be susceptible, he or she is will have a higher risk of acquiring MRSA. The following people should use extra caution to reduce their risk of getting MRSA or spreading MRSA:

  • Caregivers
  • Healthcare professionals
  • Group home staff
  • Nursing home staff
  • Teachers
  • Daycare staff
  • Prison staff

Anyone that has direct contact with a large population will not only be at an increased risk of becoming infected, but also could spread the infection from person to person within the population that they work with, once exposed.

Spread by Indirect Contact

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) can be spread by indirect contact. It can be left on towels, exercise equipment, toys, and other surfaces. It can live long enough that a person coming in contact with the surface will become infected. To avoid this it is recommended to put a barrier between suspected surfaces and skin. This can be done with a clean towel, rubber gloves, clothing, or by disinfecting the surface. There have been cases that MRSA has spread from contact with playing fields, like football playing fields where there is a lot of contact, like during tackles, with the ground.

At a healthcare facility, hospital, dental office, rehab facility, etc. the equipment used to treat patients may be infected with the bacteria and if not properly cleaned, can infect the next person that it is used on.

Spread in the Body

When the MRSA superbug grows itwill go from the wound and get into the blood or travel to other areas of the body like organs, bones, etc. This can happen quickly or slowly depending on the health of the person infected and whether the individual has other health related issues. Once it spreads it becomes more challenging to treat and can cause more serious damage.

Spread by a Carrier

Not everyone who is exposed to MRSA will become infected. Many people are exposed to the bacteria regularly and have developed immunities to it. When it is on the skin, it is still possible that the bacteria can spread to someone that a carrier comes into contact with. A strong immune system and good hygine are among the most successful ways of preventing the spread of MRSA superbug. For those who use shared equipment like at fitness center, showering afterwards not only will make you feel refreshed but can reduce your risk of becoming infected.

It is believed that the heavy use of antibiotics and stopping antibiotic treatment early has lead to the growth of this bacterium and the spread of MRSA. Though medical practices have changed and people learned that too sterile of an everyday living environment prevents natural immunities to be developed, the treatment resistant infection continues to be a growing problem.

MRSA Compensation Claims

What about MRSA Compensation Claims?