Preventing Staph or MRSA Infections

MRSA is a type of staph infection that is resistant to certain antibiotics, such as methicillin, oxacillin, penicillin and amoxicillin.

Staph infections, including MRSA, occur most frequently among people with weakened immune systems and the elderly in hospitals and healthcare facilities. However, cases of community-associated staph infections have been on the rise, and are usually associated with close skin-to skin contact, open cuts, contaminated items, poor hygiene and crowded living conditions.

Preventing Staph or MRSA Skin Infections

The best way to reduce your chance of contracting a staph infection or MRSA is to practice good hygiene:

• Keep your hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or using
  an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed.
• Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

See also: MRSA and Staph Infection Overview