Methicillin -resistant Staphylococcus Aureus ( MRSA) Type of infection caused by bacteria

1. MRSA What is it? Symptoms Transmission • Skin-to-skin contact with infected persons • Through cuts or abrasions • It is NOT transmitted by coughing or sneezing! • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) • Type of infection caused by bacteria • Cannot be treated with certain types of antibiotics • Most MRSA infections are skin infections • Common: • Red painful bump or rash • Puss • Fever • Serious: • Chest Pain • Chills • Rash Think you have MRSA? • Do not drain any liquid yourself! • Contact medical professional IMMEDIATELY • Keep affected area away from others Possible Complications Prevention • Pneumonia • Blood infection • Toxic Shock Syndrome • Death • Avoid contact with other people's wounds • Do not share personal items, such as razors, towels, or clothing • Shower after contact sports, gym use, or sex • WASH YOUR HANDS! Want more info? Whatcom County Health Department http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us509 Girard StreetTelephone: (360) 676-6724 Emergency number: (360) 715-2588 Helpful Websites The Centers for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov PubMed Health: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Skagit County Health Department http://www.skagitcounty.net 700 South 2nd St # 301Mount Vernon, WA 98273(360) 336-9380