MRSA Treatment

For successful treatment of a MRSA outbreak take the following steps. Remember that the MRSA organism exists in the pus that comes out of the boil so treat this discharge with respect and keep the area covered.

#1 Take your oral antibiotic as directed.

#2 Wash in the shower head to toe with Phisoderm or Hibiclens antibacterial soap (available over the counter at the pharmacy). All members of the household should do this twice a day.

#3 Bactroban nasal ointment applied inside the nose on both sides twice a day for 14 days. (Again, all household members should do this). Apply this using a Q-tip and then discard.

#4 HANDWASHING! This is the best way to prevent spreading this infection. If any other household members develop any symptoms of infection such as boils, etc. they should be seen by a doctor immediately.

#5 Keep bed linen and clothing clean throughout the time of treatment and perform a routine house cleaning with a good disinfectant spray on all surfaces.

MRSA (Methicillin resistant staph aureus) is a particularly resistant staphylococcal infection which is spread from skin to skin and may be picked up on surfaces or on clothing. It is found in the community and the origin of the infection may not be easily detected. The fluid that leaks out of the blisters and boils on the skin is the contagious agent and this is how it is spread. You do not need to quarantine yourself or your family but please take precautions to keep the surfaces of your skin and clothing as clean as possible.