Is it possible that I will continually carry MRSA?

Persistent MRSA Carriage: What's the Outlook?

MRSA, or Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a type of bacteria that has developed resistance to several antibiotics, posing a significant health concern worldwide.

Practicing good hygiene is crucial in preventing the spread of MRSA. This includes washing hands frequently, maintaining personal cleanliness, avoiding sharing items, keeping open wounds covered, disinfecting surfaces, and keeping items clean. These simple measures can help reduce the risk of MRSA transmission.

While MRSA can survive on surfaces for days or weeks, it's important to note that not everyone who comes into contact with MRSA will develop an infection. However, certain groups of people are at a higher risk. These include immunosuppressed patients such as transplanted individuals, chemotherapy patients, and those with untreated HIV; very young children and older patients over 65 years of age; and individuals with prolonged or recent hospital stays, intensive care, recent antibiotic use, a weakened immune system, invasive procedures, chronic conditions like diabetes or COPD, and rare genetic disorders like chronic granulomatous disease.

For those who carry MRSA, the bacteria can permanently colonize parts of the body for some people. This means they are more likely to develop an infection than those who do not carry MRSA. In such cases, a doctor may try to eliminate MRSA bacteria from the nose and skin in a process called "decolonization". This process involves rubbing an ointment such as Bactroban or bacitracin into each nostril twice daily for 5 days. During the same 5 days, bathing or showering with special soap once daily is also part of the process.

However, decolonization is usually not permanent, and the bacteria tend to recolonize within weeks of this treatment. It's essential to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent the recurrence of MRSA.

With treatment, an MRSA infection can heal, but it may return multiple times and become chronic. Carrying MRSA bacteria does not necessarily cause visible symptoms or make a person sick, which is why regular screening and good hygiene practices are so important.

In conclusion, while MRSA can pose a threat, understanding the bacteria, its transmission, and the steps to prevent and treat it can help keep individuals safe and healthy. It's crucial to maintain good hygiene, be aware of the risk factors, and seek medical advice if concerned about MRSA.