Understanding MRSA. (Mersa or Staph)

Ask an MRSA question * MRSA News * MRSA in your locality

MRSA Watch has gathered over 4500 articles on MRSA into a unique directory - see A-Z  guide in right hand column. Click on coloured text in the MRSA Basics guide below for more information on a specific subject.  The site is updated daily. Scroll down past the guide for specific information about aspects of MRSA

We also have an information packed audio introduction will help you grasp the key facts and the key issues surrounding MRSA

A short introduction from Dave Roberts

Simple staph aureus (SA) bacteria, (mrsa is not a virus), can be found on the bodies of up to 30% of the general population. It caused many problems before the use of antibiotics made wound recovery a safer process. Hospital acquired staph is generally resistant to several antibiotics but especially Methicillin, hence the name MRSA. This is found in about 1% of the population but in some pockets of the population this figure can be much higher.

Image from Komo News

Community Acquired MRSA (CA MRSA) is a different strain of MRSA, mainly causes skin infections and is treatable by more drugs at this time. CA MRSA (sometimes known as Mersa or Mursa) is more infectious and some strains of it are more destructive - should it become resistant to more antibiotics it could pose a considerable public health risk. Many people carry or are 'colonised' by staph bacteria but only suffer when they have another illness.

The colonisation stage carries no symptoms. Many only suffer MRSA as an infection of an existing wound. In recent times however some types of CA MRSA have begun to cause significant skin infections in otherwise healthy patients. The entry point is often a tiny cut, graze or exisiting skin condition.

How do people catch MRSA?
There are several ways it is believed to spread.

• Hand carriage - this is why hospital staff are encouraged to wash their hands after each patient.
• Contaminated surfaces - this is why clean hospital wards are vital.
• Via medical instruments - this is why many now have special coatings or have silver elements. This discourages lingering residues and/or kills external infection entering the wound
• Via airborne particles - MRSA often resides in the nasal passages and can spread with colds and flu as a secondary infection that may be dormant for some while.
• Shared items - Families or other close knit groups sharing a facility such as military personnel, a sports team or prison inmates may share hygiene items such as towels etc. This is another vector for the spread of the bacteria
• Needles - Drug users sharing needles may be passing on MRSA alongside HIV or Hepatitis C. The same could be said of tattoo artists who do not have strict hygiene regimes.
• Sexual Intimacy - the nose, groin and underarms are key colonisation areas for the bacteria. Sex workers and the habitually promiscous will be super spreaders in a society in much the same way as they are for AIDS.

How is it treated?
There are 3 key treatment regimes that are commonly used.

• For those who are colonised - a nasal treatment and a skin wash. This is often the strategy when MRSA is rare or prior to an operation as a means of preventing infection. Where MRSA is common some doctors will not suggest decolonisation as many will be recolonised within months within the local community. Some deep seated - throat and intestine - colonisation may require drug treatment.
• For those who have a potential or active bloodstream infection - drugs such as Vancomycin, Linezolid or Daptomycin.
• For those with infected wounds - special honey, silver bandages, garlic preparations and tea tree oil are all believed to be effective in killing MRSA in a wound. Many who have the skin infections common with CA MRSA simply need incision and drainage of the infected area and good hygiene while it heals. Antibiotics are not always needed.

How can it be prevented
The media often focus on clean hospitals and clean hands as a key to combating MRSA. Others believe that this will only cut cases by 30% and that a diverse strategy is vital and will include:

• Clean Wards - especially surfaces and keyboards.
• Staff Screening - are they super carriers?
• Patient Screening - so that they can be decolonised and to avoid self infection.
• Hospital Equipment - because it can take the infection deep into a wound.
• Air Hygiene - to help prevent nasal colonisation
• Hand Hygiene - to prevent transport from patient to patient via staff hands
  
• Antibiotic Restraint - because resistance grows from over prescription
• The Food Chain - is resistance also provoked by over use in the animals that we eat?
• Patient Isolation - this helps lessen the potential risk of airborne infection
• Lifestyle Choices - needle injected drugs and multiple sexual partners help spread chronic illnesses that emerge slowly.

What can I do

• Stay informed - this site and several others can help you do this. The A-Z guide in the right hand column will give you in depth information on over 50 aspects of MRSA from over 4000 articles, news items and academic papers.
  
• Ask others via our MRSA Watch forum
• Act locally by becoming involved in patient advocacy or patient/hospital forums
• Seek justice - do you need to take legal action because of neligence or do we all need to speak up for communities who are being hit by CA MRSA but are underinsured and often powerless.

MRSA Headlines

Comments

[Kathleen R]

My husband (54 years of age)was admitted to a southern california hospital for cardiac surgery, a 6 day stay turned into 6 weeks and ultimately he died from MRSA contracted during his stay. His death has been devasting to my family. I also work in the medical profession and I trusted the hospital I sent my husband to, to take care of him, keep him well and send him home. I have contacted an attorney and the burden of proof lies with the plaintiff to prove he contracted the disease during his hospitalization and then prove if the superbug had been identified earlier if his death could have been avoided!

[Sobacki]

I am a white male 67 years of age. Since June , 2004 I have had open heart surgery, colen restructure, ostomy take down, surgery to repair 5 hernias, and shoulder surgery to repair the rotory cuff and remove bone spure cluster. The shoulder surgery was performed in Aug. 2005. I have had three more wash out surgeries on the shoulder because of a MRSA infection. I also have noticed the the staff of the hospitals are very careless about washing thier hands before they work on me and after they completed to work. After the third wash out of the shoulder I had another infection of the site 6 days after the wash out. I am presently taking 600 mg clindamycin HLC three times a day. The doctor removed two of the stiches at the site of the infection and forced drainage. I was told to go home (this was Friday) and run my shower water on the site and squeeze the site while in the shower. After the shower I continue to squeeze the site until no more fluid is present. This seems to be working for now. I was set up with appointment with the doctor for the following Monday to see if this was working. I do not wait long if I see any sign of the infection. This is one bad bug and I hope it does not turn to the bad for me.

[Ian]

Following the investigation of a sputum sample I decided to take to my g.p., and a straightforward chest x-ray, I have been told I have mrsa in my lung. Within two days my g.p. had written to the hospital. I am now waiting for a ct scan + consultant.

Anyone out there had this ?

I have a dental appointment early September - two teeth have to come out and be replaced with crowns. I am somewhat concerned at have 'wounds' in my mouth and I will check things with the g.p. In the meantime, anyone out there been through this ?

[Deborah]

I am a 35 yr old healthy woman who has community acquired MRSA. I thought at first it was a brown recluse bite. I am a single mother of two children so am frequently exposed to schools, shopping, the general public, etc. My Father is an electronmicroscopist and I have always been keenly aware of the unseen forces of life. So I wash my hands frequently. I can not help but wonder what the use of all of these antibiotic hand soaps is doing to our environment.
I have several flesh eating lesions on my leg and am quite baffled. My children have nothing. And no one around me has this. It's true I work too hard and don't sleep as much as i should. Either way, we can't control what other people do, wash their hands or not. We can educate people by spreading the word of this bacteria. My situation pales in comparison to the hospital acquired MRSA but I am living proof that ANYONE can get it.

[Wayne]

I got CA-MRSA 8/19/06. Mine was misdiagnosed as spider bite, common cellulitis and others as well. It's 9/11 today and first received Zyvox. I'm hoping for a great outcome and few side effects.

[Nancy]

My mom passed away on September 6, 2006. She had emergency surgery on her gut and was doing good and all of a sudden she contracted MRSA and MRSE. She was put on a ventilator because she developed pnuemonia. She lasted 6 days...I am so hurt and angry because this did not need to happen. I want someone to pay for this and will seek some form of legal advise.

[Amanda]

There is a baby 3 monthes old in a chattanooga childrens hospital, he is dieing he has MRSA. None of the antibotics are helping him he has died once already. If there is anyone reading this thats knows of something that might help cure this baby please send an e-mail, of how to get in touch w/ you. The baby has fought hard and been through a couple of surgrys to get fluid off of him he is fighting so please if you can suggest anything that we can suggest the docotor try let us know.

[Michelle]

My mom has copd. She acquired a cold and her lungs collasped. She was healthy before the cold basically. She has been in ICU for 4 weeks and now acquired MRSA in her trache/ventilator tract. She is on Vancomyocin. She is having a difficult time keeping her O2 sats above 90 and her Blood Gases are not good. I am scared for her. She is only 58. Her wbc is 22,000. She does not have a fever. ANy suggestions to help her?

[Shari]

I have a friend that is 25 and a single mom. She contracted MRSA and was diagnosed about 3 weeks ago. She had surgery to remove the infected area of the boil and has a tube that is suppose to be draining for 3 months. She is suppose to be going to the doctor every few days for it to be cleaned and such.. she is not! Today she told me that it is in her leg too! I am at a lost as to what to do. I have told her straight out if she does not get back to the doctor and do as she is supposed too she will leave her son without a mother!

I do not know too much about MRSA... am reading what I can on the net, that is how I found this site. ANy advice or facts you can share would greatly be appreciated!

[Dave Roberts]

It is vital that she goes for the sake of her health but also the health of her friends and family. If this infection is not dealt with she will be more likely to infect others.

MRSA rarely kills which is why some can be complacent. But if the old, the young or the already ill get it it can be very serious.

The key issue is that she has a responsibility to others. It may only feel like a boil to her but it could be fatal to someone else

Hope this is helpful

Dave Roberts
MRSA Watch

[julie dudley]

my 85yr old aunt went into hospital 6months ago with a broken hip,she contracted MRSA & consequntly lost her hip and some of the adjoining bone.She is left with a leg 4inches shorter and totally incapacitated and now living in a nursing home.How angry this has made me as she was a totally independant lady who took care of herself completely. At one point my cousin, who like myself was taking washing home,took a bag of what she thought was washing and tipped the contents into her washer, the contents being soiled incontinent pads which i might add had been put into my aunts locker and we think the nightdresses disposed of. Totally disgusting!

[Tina Gruden]

My dad went to the hospital for pneumonia and was diagnosed with MRSA. He has had throat cancer, his carotid artery has ruptured, he has had a trach, and he had an allergic reaction to some medicine in the hospital and went 11 hours with this reaction without a nurse noticing. And now this. Plus he can't eat anything he drinks nutritional drinks and thats it for almost 5 years. So his health is terrible. The doctors say the MRSA is gone but he keeps getting thrush and his memory is now going. I don't know if his memory loss has anything to do with MRSA but I'm scared. I'm his caregiver and I'm literally with him from the time he wakes up 4:30-5:00 every morning until the second he goes to bed 11:00-12:00. I'm so overwhelmed and scared that he has not gotten rid of the MRSA and his memory loss and he's getting emotional and anger outbursts. So I need some help what do I do? How do I know it's gone. If anyone can get it from him I can. I bathe him and do everything for him. He sits in a chair his whole life. He's on oxygen and has COPD also. I need some emotional support and help. How do I know it's gone and does it have anything to do with memory loss? If anyone has any answers or just wants to be my friend please let me know. I know this comment is all over the place but I'm so overtired and overworked I don't think straight anymore. HELP PLEASE!

[Pamela Bauer]

I am a young, fit 35 yr. old mother of six boys and I have MRSA. I have no idea where I contracted it. I woke up on a Wednesday morning with a very high fever and severe pain. I had a spot on my upper right chest wall. With in 24 hours I was admitted to our local hospital and taken immediately to surgery to cut out the infected area. My condition seriously worsened in a short amount of time (all the while being on i.v. vanco and morphin for pain) and I was transferred to Ohio State University Hospital. I had mrsa on my lung, fluid around my lungs, mrsa in my joint by my collar bone, in my thoracic artery and collarbone. This was two months ago. I was hospitalized for over two weeks. I am currently being treated at home with vanco. through an I.V. central line twice a day and have visiting nurses once a week. I continue to be under a doctor's care and will be for awhile. If I can get this, anyone can. I am a very "have it together" woman. I have a very clean home and a healthy lifestyle. This continues to be an amazing journey for me and my family. For those of you with MRSA just stay positive and it is extemely important to keep in contact with your doctor. It can kill you or god forbid you give it to someone else (maybe a child) and it kills them. I believe that mrsa can affect you in so many ways that I am not sure doctor's really even know. I even lost muscle control in my right upper arm and neck area and had physical therapy in the hospital. For those of you lucky enough to just have your site drained and be given oral antibiotics - count your blessings. I think awareness is vitally important. Before I contracted MRSA I had never heard of it.....

[Becky]

My grandmother has just been diagnosed with MRSA, she is in a nursing home, they tell me she got it from having pink eye. I took my Rat Terrier, who my grandmother loves, to see her two days ago, then yesterday, they quarantined my grandmother and told us she has MRSA. Is there any link between pink eye and MRSA? How fast does it manifest? Is there any link between dogs and MRSA and should I be concerned if my son, myself or the little dog now have it from visiting her two days ago? I will be visiting by myself today, will be very precautious. Any information would be helpful.

[Mindy]

My mother was in and out of ER's this summer, so I was too. She turned out to have a rare lung infection called Nocardia, which is treated with Bactrim for up to a year. Some time during her illness I picked up CA-MRSA. I got a boil on the back of my neck, then later one on my bum, then later one on my head. The third time we did a culture and found out it was CA-MRSA. I had been treated with Keflex and Oxycycline. After a nasal swab came up positive I was given Bactrim, which I turned out to be allergic to, broke out in splotches, got a sore throat, ran a fever.

I now have pink eye. I'm wondering too if it is related to the MRSA.This all started in May of this year.

[Lonnie]

I'm an active 37 year old healthy male. On a Wednesday in early August I stepped in a hole in the ground at my son's football practice resulting in a pain in my lower back that I figured must be a muscle pull. The next day (Thursday) I was in so much pain that my wife ended up taking me to the emergency room that evening. They did some x-rays and told me that it was likely a muscle spasm pinching my sciatic nerve. The ER doctor told to make an appointment with my PCP on that coming Monday. He said I needed an MRI which I had later Monday evening. Tuesday evening I was in so much pain that I couldn't move my arms or legs without severe pain shooting through my lower back and my left leg. I was admitted to the hospital that night. After being in the hospital for 4 or 5 days I was finally told that a staph infection was behind my pain. There was a larger than grapefruit sized mass of infection in my SI joint. It was also in my right shoulder. After 10 weeks of IV antibiotics (2 weeks in the hospital and 8 at home) the infection appears to have vacated my body. My lower back is feeling much better but after 2 months of therapy I feel like my should is not getting any better. I was told that the infection in my shoulder was small and not that serious yet 3 and a half months later I can barely raise my arm above my shoulder and it hurts constantly. My orthopedic doctor says the pain is due to scar tissue left in the muscles and joint of my shoulder or adhesive capsulitis. Is this a common thing to happen to a body joint after a staph infection? I feel like more is going but it maybe that I'm just so frustrated that after 2 months of therapy my arm only feels like a fraction of what I feel it should be.

[Billie Thomas]

My daughter and her husband have been fighting staph infections. Antibiotics weren't working. As soon as the antibiotics stopped, the boils came back. After some research, I decided to try garlic. We put minced garlic (the kind you buy at the grocery store in a jar) on a bandaid and put it on the boil. Within 24 hours, there was marked improvement. You might give this a try. I certainly won't hurt anything and could very well help.

[Jane]

I just found two boils on my arm. I went to the doctor and it is MRSA. He has me on Bactrim and it did not work. He added Levotrim*may be misspelled, and my arm still looks swollen and burned. The sores are still there. I now have a leg that feels so sore when I walk. Are they conected? Can I die from this? I am strating to panick. Any thing you all recommend?

[Sheila]

Jane, the the 2nd antibiotic you mentioned was Levaquin. It is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible, since you are still experiencing symptoms and are having problems with your leg. The two could be connected. Did your doctor drain the sores/abcesses on your arm? For an abcess to heal, it usually has to be drained and possibly packed with gauze. Wound care is very important, as well as taking ALL of the antibiotic. My doctor uses Dakins' solution, which is a bleach solution made for wound care. Many doctors will refer someone that has had MRSA to an infectious disease specialist. It's also important to note that someone can die from MRSA infection, so prompt medical treatment is key.

[Jane]

Thank you so much for responding. A week later, the two sores are still there. However, they have popped and are smaller, but still red and irritated. I am still taking medication Bactrim and Bactrim cream ointment. I was told to spray alcohol too. I do plan to schedule an appt with a specialist. Hopefully they can see me soon. By the way, the soreness in my leg has subsided.

[Peggy]

Help. I need advice. I had basil cell skin cancer out- patient surgery on a leg in November. Bottom of lower leg, front of shin, close to ankle. I've always healed wonderfully. This wound became infected and was diagnosed as MRSA.

I asked my primary doc if it was infected in the beginning. He said, yes looks like it and put another bandaid on it. Then when I went back to the surgeon she ordered cultures and it was MRSA. Since then, I've been on two different anti-biotics. During the last one it did decrease in size and got better. But it is still infected, still a hole in my leg, still bloody and sore and still painful.

I am at my wit's end. I can't take it anymore. I emailed my surgeon last night and told her I want to see a specialist, try light therapy, maggots, I don't care. I can't live like this. I am an exercise instructor and athlete and this is affecting my work and MY LIFE. I also have a mechanical aortic valve and am very worried about this infection getting in my bloodstream and affecting my heart. People like me with artificial valves are at risk for endocarditis. That's why we take anti-biotics prior to dental work. The surgeon has said several times I don't have to worry about this. I don't believe her.

Unfortunately for me, I have Kaiser, where you are just a number, not a human. I don't know what to do next. I cannot afford to see a specialist on my own. I am so depressed, tired and scared.

[Chris Walker]

Hello,
I read an interesting article in the Journal of Environmental Health by "Gabriel Bitton" which shows that 99% of Germs on a dish or floor cloth can be killed by putting them in a microwave for 3 or 4 minutes. This might be a way of helping in the fight against MRSA if all the hospital cleaners regularly put their cloths into microwaves....

[Cindy]

Dear Peggy:

Ask your doctor about Zyvox, it can be given through an IV or in pill form. It is very expensive, but worth every penny!!! My husband suffered from MRSA and he took this antibiotic and it worked. I also put him on a large dose of acidophlus and 5000mg of garlic, which helps replace your good bacteria. When you are on an antibiotic, as my husband was for almost a year before the MRSA, an infection can take hold because the antibiotic has not only killed the bad bacteria, but the good as well.

Another idea: 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in half a glass of warm water 3x a day. Continue for several days or more if you have recurring MRSA boils. Turmeric, a traditional Ayurvedic spice of India, is anti-inflammatory and a blood purifier. This can be found in any Indian grocery store.

Good luck and I hope this helps.

[Shari]

My 18-month old was treated for CA-MRSA about 4 months ago- Her treatment seems to have worked sucessfully.

Does anyone know if this means she is ok for life now?
WHAT IS THE RECCURENCE rates OF CA-MRSA?

I still panic at every cut, cold etc she gets now & I would feel so much better if I know for sure she is "cured".
Thanks to all who answer.

[jane]

my dad has got mrsa on his chest . he has been in hospital for nearly 5 months now, he was only in there for 2 wks at the most. you see he has parkinsons disease and his brain is shrinking at the front of his head. there has been a lot of people in the hospital who have got mrsa, it does make you wonder what is going on. my family all have to wear aprons and gloves,i hate it he doesnt realise why we wear them,i dont want him to think that we dont want to be near him.may be everyone that visits hospitals should be made to wear aprons and gloves.does anyone no what happens to people with mrsa that is on someones chest??????? would really like to hear more about this please. thankyou

[Tammy]

I need some advice!! My 7 year old son had staph infection most of last summer, my 8 year old daughter had it and my husband actually had a flesh eating staph. It was a horrible summer. They were all given Bactrim and Keflex and it took care of it. Now my son yesterday has shown me a spot on his leg and I think it's staph again. He always complains of leg pain. I've always chalked it up as maybe "growing pains" but I'm not sure anymore. Could there be any link here with the staph infection? especially with him getting it again. Hmmmm? Any advice is welcome.
Thanks
Tammy

[J Smith]

My daughter broke her leg in 2 places 2 weeks ago. Surgery was preformed on Wed afternoon and she was sent home the very same day with no antibiotics. She was in so much she had to have her pain medication refilled 3 times. She called the doctors office several times out of concern about the pain and was told this was normal. She was never told that she might need to come in to let them look at the incisions. Well on Tuesday of this week she went to get the staples out and they put her back in the hospital for more surgery. They went in and cleaned out the incision and a vaccum pump was put on the area to draw out the infection. The morning of the 2nd. surgery her nose was swabbed. She was told she had MRSA. She has no insurance is being treated very badly by the Dr. He has been in her room twice and told her she needs to be thinking about how she is going to pay for the expensive medicine. I am going out of my mind with worry. I am afraid she might lose her leg.

[sharon]

My husband, age 59, got MRSA from back surgery. He had an herneated disc had surgery, One week later another surgery, doral tear, 4 days later another surgery, dorel tear. He is in a rehab hosp. can't walk or sit. He is in alot of pain and taking lots and lots of pain meds. Rehab is slow and they want to kick him out. He is on anti-biotics daily. It has been 3 weeks. How do I know that Ft Myers hosp is doing the correct procedures for the back and staph pain? Is there a specialty hosp for this?

[sharon]

My husband has been in the hosp for 3 weeks. He is 59. He had 3 back surgeries in a week and a half. Contacted staph infection. Is now in rehab for a week. He is alot of pain, taking lots of pain meds, and can't walk or sit for more than 5 minutes. He is in a rehab hosp. They want to kick him out because rehab is so slow. I don't want to put him in a nursing home and he con't come home because of the daily dosage of antibiotics. Insurance won't pay for them unless thay are administered in a medical facility. He can's walk or get in or our of a car. Is there a special hosp. that deals with staph disease and/or rehab after staph disease? Help

[Nelda]

well, here is another story to tell. My 48 year old sister, had a stroke in April 06, my mother and I went to see her in the hospital, where she was in a room with an older lady, who had a hip replacement, the lady was to go home on or about the next day (sat), but instead the Dr. takes her back to the OR, where he culture's her and this culture comes back with MRSA.
In, June 06, I get an abcess under my left arm, and go to the ER, where my Dr. cuts it open, but NO culture was taken. So, we don't know at that time what caused this. The next week, my sister, goes to have a pedport placed, and the nurse took a sputum culture, and guess what this test came back that she has MRSA, in her lungs.
So, we go on living till I start getting this scores on my leg, after I, could shave my legs. I, ask some people about this, I have no medical insc. So, someone told me that I needed to get an elect. razer, instead of using reg. razer. okay? In, Oct. 06, I get 2 large abcess's one on my back and one on my right thigh. Had, to go to the hospital, where the Dr. tells my mother to get on the phone, and call the church people to pray, I was that bad....So, at least he was a good Dr. and took cultures and guess what? It came back MRSA....
After, thinking things where getting better for me. I was back in the hospital, again in Dec. 06, this crap, had returned in the thigh again. Try to get back to some kind of life, that is now a JOKE.
In, March 07, was back in the hospital, again bacause my right leg started swelling and those scores bust open. Here, we go again. Now, it's April 07, I, go to the DR. because of the pain in my right leg, is so, bad it fell's like i have needles just trying to get out of my body.by the way, leg is still swelling, when I try to set up in the chair.Now, he tells me that the nerve's are beening affected by this. They, (who-ever ) they are says life so on,
Well, it has been 6 months, I have not worked, because my job is driving a pilot car for oversize loads, with semi's. we drive 500-600 miles a day. can't do that because the leg swells, to bad.Well now you say go get help... from WHO? our nice goverment says that I need prof that I will not be able to drive for a year or longer. Help, to pay the almost $30,000.00 worth of medical bills and 6 Dr's I have seen. No, that will not work either.
Talk about going crazy? yes, I am almost to the point that I will be better of dead, going to end up there someday I guess.
Try, to find a lawyer to see if my sister and I have a case against this hospital? can't find in the state we live, (KY). if, you can call just try getting up out of the bed, every day and going to the reclainer living.
thanks, for giving me the time to air out my thoughts and sadness.Only
people that has this knows that heart ache and pain that you can go though. again thanks..

[Skatha]

Can MRSA potentially be spread via oral sex?

A few days after receiving oral sex from my partner, I notice a small pimple that grow enormous very quickly. Following InD, the culture came back as MRSA.

Although I work in a hospital, this seems a strange place to manifest considering how meticulous I am about hand washing/sanitizing.

I am wondering if he should be cultured nasally and potentially treated?

[h5n1watcher]

http://tahilla.typepad.com, for some reason, is not processing its subscription requests either for mrsawatch or birdflu (broken subscription link on the http://tahilla.typepad.com/birdflu/2005/11/bird_flu_news_f.html#comment-68929026 page).

[chris valdez]

I need some freken help. I believe i got the staph infections from my roomate last year and they keep comming back every 2 to 3 months. keep on going to the doctors and they gave me bactrim and keflex which they say it will work. I was hoping it would go away which the doctors said but it was a bunch of bullshit. iam sick of this because now i got 4 infections in my leg as of now and i dont want to spread this crap. what the hell should i do because iam in desperate need of help

[John]

I have had 6 boils in the last year, after this last Dr. visit my Dr. tells me I have MRSA, I had most of my boils on my butt, So i went and had this last one lanced and to the Dr. the next day, well the head of my penis started turning red and before long a blister popped up, Thats when she in formed me of mrsa. She gave me bactrim, bactriban and something that starts with a c.
How long does it take for the infection to go away once you're on antibiotics. And are they going to keep coming back??

[Emma]

For those of you that are just finding boil or stys, I have a few tips: have a bath with saltwater every day to treat the boils you have and prevent new ones, don't ever touch your nose or armpits without washing your hands after, drink lots of fluid, reduce your stress (I do yoga).

[Emma]

For those of you that are just finding boil or stys, I have a few tips: have a bath with saltwater every day to treat the boils you have and prevent new ones, don't ever touch your nose or armpits without washing your hands after, drink lots of fluid, reduce your stress (I do yoga).

[Samantha]

I have been battling MRSA since December 2006. They appear as a large boil. They get bery red, swollen and hot. I have had 18-20 from my legs to my head (and everywhere in between). I have done BACTRUM antibiotics 3x's. I've done the nasal cremes, I've done the creme under the nails, I've done the stuff you shower with.. I've popped and drained them myself.. I am soooo tired of having them. I have all these tiny scars from then and now I have an infant in my home to worry about. I want all of this to just stop. I have on under my arm pit. I can't raise my arm or move it. I just returned from the ER, it's not ready to be drained, so I was given an antibiotic and vicodin... ENOUGH all ready! Please send any advice you can my way!

[ROSIE ROSE]

MY TWO YEAR OLD SON HAD A PLACE LOOKING LIKE A BOIL CAME UP ON HIS GROIN AREA... THE DR. DONE A NASAL SWAB & SAID IT WAS + FOR MRSA... HE IS ON ALLERGY SHOTS AND HAS CHRONIC ASTHMA... HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO GET THIS OUT OF HIS BLOOD STEAM....

[JUlian Lieb,M.D]

Lieb,J."The immunostimulating and antimicrobial properties of lithium and antidepressants." J Infection (2004) 49(2) 88-93.
Lieb,J."Lithium and antidepressants: stimulating immune function and preventing and reversing infection." Medical Hypotheses 2007;69(1):8-11. Epub 2007 Feb 6. Over the past twenty five years I have published ten articles on the resisted paradigm shift. It is highly unlikely that the benefits can be duplicated.
Sincerely,
Julian Lieb,M.D

[Joshua]

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[PHP]

I am a 34-year-old female who has been diagnosed with MRSA. I have had it for about 2 years. It is in my legs and feet. I have already lost my big toe because of the MRSA. I am probably going to lose another one. I have taken all of the antibiotics for MRSA but nothing seems to help. I have hospital bills piling up. I can't take it anymore. Please help!

[michael]

my mam has just had a swap taken and told she is mrsa positive. What does this mean will she die from this can we catch it from her, my dad lives at home wit her can they still sleep in the same bed? My sister does her personal care is she had a big risk of catching this? Is it safe to take my two year old daughter around ?

[John]

I was shocked to see so many cases of this infection! I had a "bump" form on my arm not far from my elbow, some time back.
Well, I noticed over time this bump hurt, I tried popping it, nothing seemed to come of it. The next day my arm was red and swollen, some thought a spider bite.
I saw a PA at my PCP and they did the test to confirm MERSA.
We spoke a little on the seriousness of this bacterial infection.
I obviously wasted no time in getting medical attention I recommend this to ALL who suspect any problem of this sort, PLEASE< do not wait to seek help.
At this time, the PA applied local anesthesia, made a few incisions as I watched and out oozed the infection.
It was quite a painful ordeal, she used those wirey thin swabs w\ peroxide to help fizz out the infection. I was put on antibiotics and EVERY DAY I had to peel off the bandages, RE-open the wound by poking swabs into it w\ peroxide and gently moving the swab all around inside to help clean and drain it off. I did this atleast twice everyday, applied clean bandages etc.
It was time consuming and not very comfortable but it was well worth it to me to have my health and my arm back.
After repeat doc visits to confirm there was no more infection, the wound simply healed itself up and Thanks be to God I've had no more occurences. Unfortunately a co-worker had contracted this infection in a worse way, he has also put off seeing a physician for some time unfortunately, he has had it appear in several places over his body, multiple times and when he finishes his course, it seems to return. He said they told him he's built a tolerance, the antibiotics are not working, I've not see him in several days. I am hoping he is well. I pray for anyone suffering from this terrible infection, just be sure to get help if you find something on your body that you know doesnt belong, dont wait.

[Me in Washington]

I am a healthy 22 year old female, who has never been hospitalized for anything. I don't do drugs, I'm not dirty and my house is clean. One day I woke up with what I thought was a spider bite, after 2 days I realized it was something more so I went to the Emergency Room. They told me I was positive for MRSA. I dont know how I got it, where I got it, it's quite confusing. They told me that I caught it really early. But I have so many questions; Will I always have it? Will very cut or scrape I have turn into another infection? Can you get it from all bodily fluids including blood? Anyone with some answers plese respond!

[Debbie]

Does this sound familiar? I was diagnosed last year and since my Dermatologist put me on Minocycline (Low doses) for 12 months...so far - so good.

Good Luck!

[Debbie]

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hidradenitis-suppurativa/DS00818/DSECTION=2

[Michelle]

My 21 month old son was diagnosed with MRSA. He is currently on Bactrim DS. The boils were subsiding, but now they seem to be coming back. Does anyone know the length of time it takes to be cured? Can you tell me any other remedies that will kill this infection? Please help!!!!!

[Me in Washington]

Hey Michelle,
I hate to be the one to tell you this, but MRSA never goes away. Once you have it you have it forever. That doesn't mean you will see it all the time, in fact my Dr. told me that some people have it once and never see it again, some people see it a few times a year.... it just depends. My best advice santize, wash hands and constantly wash your son's bedding! It will be ok, I was on Bactrim DS for 15 days, I ended up having to get my boil removed, packed for two weeks and then stitched all in all my first and so far only (knock on wood) outbreak of MRSA lasted from first symtom to stitches being out a total of 20 days! I really hope your little boy feels better if you have any more questions feel free to ask, I have become sort of a pro at this infection.

[Debbie Ward]

my 20 year old son is in the hospital with a very bad leg wound he now has Mersa and RVE im afraid he will loose his leg maybe his life it has been a living hell to say the least and now to find out he most likely contracted it from the hospital ..I WANT TO SECREM.....DEBBIE WARD LDS HOSPITAL SLC UTAH foruawink@yahoo.com

[Angie]

I clean house for someone who has MRSA staff infection. He is resistant to the antbiotics he's been taking. I'm wondering if I'm at any risk of getting this Mrsa from being around him and in his home. I change his sheets, clean his bathroom, wash his towels. Please, I need to know if I am at risk???

[Angie]

I clean house for someone who has MRSA staff infection. He is resistant to the antbiotics he's been taking. I'm wondering if I'm at any risk of getting this Mrsa from being around him and in his home. I change his sheets, clean his bathroom, wash his towels. Please, I need to know if I am at risk???

[angry mom]

hello my husband was in the burn unit at a great hospital, they treated him for his burns and he had to have surgery and they covered his burns with a fake skin like material. well everthing was looking great and he was released 3 days after is surg. when we got home we took all precautions, i kept his bedding clean and sheets and towels. his follow-up appt. was 2 weeks later and he had started getting these big places on his leg and even on the arm that wasnt burnt. people thought he had been bite by a spider, well when he went to the doc. he said some of the places looked normal and was healing. they done blood work and we was told they would contact us asap. over the weekend his places got worse. i was so concerned i called them, they said his blood work was fine, they stated he had a small infection and his white blood cells were low! they gave him a prescription for ciphrp, while he was taking it and after he finished he was still getting big hard boils on his body. so i contacted his doc. they called him in k-flex and he is still taking that and it's not helping. well a 2 weeks ago my duaghter got a place on her arm that was identical to the places on my husband. I took her to her doc. and he said she had a staff infection and put her on bactrim since she has had several more place pop up. i am so mad because if they would have told us what kind of infection my husband had, we could have been more safe. i havent got any places and our 3 yr old hasnt. but we need to know what kind of test can determine the type of infections they have and how do we know we dont. please help us figure this out

[Nicolle]

I had hosptial acquired MRSA in 3/06 and it was in a prosthetic which was taking out of my chest after having a mastecomy.
I developed a staff epi under the skin 6/07
Then last week had a mrsa in my nose, ID doc says everyone has it. Took rifapin antibotic. Then devloiped a bladder infection-ecoli-took another antobtic.
All the doctors say its nothing dont worry.
My question is, does MRSA once it is in your body, does it colonize and stat one way or another?

[Marcie]

Should people that are diagnosed with this be working around others before the antibotics prescribed take affect?
My cowoker was seen by her doctor today. She wasn't told anything about this condition and I am very concerned. My other coworker had similiar symptoms 2 months ago.

[Amanda]

My grandmother has been dealing with mrsa for over 2 years now.. I don't know a whole lot about it but she has to go to the hospital once a day for treatments and now they have done surgery so that instead of her being stuck in the arm they put something in her heart and the Dr thinks that it may be in her heart now.. She is very scared and doesnt think shes going to make it.. How likley is it that she will make it if its in her heart?

[Heather]

I am looking for all the information that I can about treatment for MRSA. I have a 2 1/2 year old son who is getting boils from MRSA. Last year (summer of 06-he was 1 1/2) he got this for the 1st time. He contiued to get sores from August through Oct. From then on we did not have a problem until this June 07. He is now suffering from the sores/boils until this day. He also seems to be getting worse and worse. At the beginning he would get one sore, and it would drain, get better and go away. 5 days after being off of antibiatics he would get another sore. Now he is getting any ware from 5 to over 10 sores at one time in one spot. I am a VERY concerned mother, and am reading all these horror stories about MRSA. I keep on top of this constantly. I have taken my son to 2 different ID doctors, he is always at his Ped's office as soon as I spot a sore, and is put on meds right away. However, my son also has bad Eczma, which the doctors have said is why he keeps getting reoccurances. It is due to the microscoptic tears in the skin. I understand this completely, but my concern is this....
The washes that we are being told to use makes the Eczma worse, therefore providing this "superbug" more access to cause an infection. (my thought process) In this situation should I continue to use this wash? I ask because when I use the wash my son's Eczma flares up really bad. I feel as though we are stuck in a really bad spot with this. From my understanding the washes are suppose to dry the sores out to get better, however they are also drying my son's skin out which provides more microscoptic tears for the MRSA to enter all over again.
I have also been instructed by his doctor to drain these sores myself. Is this a good thing? Should I really be doing this?
I am just very concerned because my son is going through this for months at a time. Is this normal? My main question through this has been "where is this coming from?" and have been told that it is every where and that there is no way to get rid of this. I am finding this answer a hard one to swollow and feel that there maybe a better answer.

If anyone could shed some more light on this situation, someone who has gone though this same situation, or a doctor who may be reading this. I would like to get my son better and not have this back once and for all.
Thank you

[lori bova]

HI MY NAME IS LORI, I HAVE A 19 YEAR OLD SON WHO HAS ALWAYS BEEN ACTIVE IN SPORTS, HE PLAYED BASEBALL, BASKETBALL, AND FOOTBALL. LAST AUG HE HIT HIS KNEE PLAYING FOOTBALL DOCTOR SAID HE HAD A BRUISED KNEECAP. 13 MONTHS LATER AFTER 6 SURGRIES FOR SWELLING IN KNEE WE WERE TOLD HE HAD MERSA, HE HAD A WOUND VAC ON WHICH IS NOW OFF. WOUND STILL NOT HEALING. CALLING DR. AGAIN TOMORROW. DO YOU THINK IT WILL EVER HEAL. IT IS HARD WATCHING HIM SIT IN CHAIR AND SAY HOW SICK HE FEELS AND I'M A NURSE CAN ANYONE HELP.

[MCWOODSON]

I JUST GOT diagnosed WITH MRSA I DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO? CAN SOMEBODY HELP ME?
mcwoodson@att.net

[Tim]

I was diagnosed in May 2007, the best thing that has worked so far is Bactroban Cream mupirocin calicium by GlaxoSmithKline directly on the boils. Make sure to cover, so it doesn't spread. It was prescribed by Dermatologist(w/5 refills).I've also tried the Turmeric powder the last couple days, you can get this in any grocery store in spice isle for 4.00. It's pretty nasty tasting with warm water 3x per day but you can drink something to cover it. It's also helpful for diarrehha so eat plenty of fruit. Watch for the little bitty pimple looking things and catch them as soon as you can. If nothing else is handy use neosporin, I have a topical salve Batroban for the nose that I also use off and on.
Here's a natural website
http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/boils.html

[Diane Bray]

I am frustrated. My husband contracted MRSA in the hospital in May/07. We was just admitted to hospital again (Sept./07) We were never told that he was positive until he went in on Sept. lst/07. He was a hole in his big toe, very infected and getting b igger. He also has cellultis on the same foot and up his leg. His fev er soared very high. He was on Ancef for six days on IV and sent home on celefexin. It has been five days since he has been home and he starting to get sick again. The hole is being dressed every day by VON nurses. I am at my wits end. He has had a stroke, has parkinsons, has a tumor on the brain, COPd and congestive heart failure. What do I do next? HELP ME

[Barbara Lewis]

My 50 year old cousin has been battling MRSA, PSEUDOMAS, AND another bacteria in the lungs since March 2007. It began with him not being able to breathe and was coughing terribly. So weak he could hardly walk more than 10 feet without resting. We live in a small town and he went to the local doc, who first diagnosed as allergies, then bronchitis, then regular pneumonia. When about 1-2 months had elapsed they did a blood, spitum, and xray and discovered MRSA in his lungs. They treated with the only drug that was suppose to cure the MRSA. He could not take orally, it made him sick. They put him in hospital and gave intravenously. This did not cure the infection. I encouraged and finally got him to let me contact Pulmonary Specialists in a much larger city. They did a broncoscope and sent to the lab. It was MRSA, Pseudomonas, and ECOLI. They also discovered that his immune system was nearly zero (caused from taking Embreyol shots for 3 years for scorisis). Thye said if he had taken 7 more shots he be dead now. Also that it remains in the system for 9 months. The doctor did not reguire him to come back for regular blood checks prior to issuing new prescripts and was prescribing 50 mg per week (normally 25-50 mg are prescribed). Notice the adverisement on TV about the effects on the immune system. They treated intravenously with two different type drugs. For 14 days. He got better for a week and started coughing terribly again. I told him that it must be coming back. He went back and the ECOLI had cleared at that time but the other 2 remained. He is now in the hospital in Augusta and has been there for 2 weeks. He had a scan and has abscesses on both lungs. We were told it was not cancer, which we were afraid it was. I presume dealing with the bacterias from March till today caused the problem. Vancomycin and another IV, plus some oral medications are the treatment. He is on oxygen and is severly ill. He was so weak that he could not even chew to eat. He was told today that he needed to start thinking about whether he wants to be put on a respirator because he is not getting any better/treatment is not working. When oxygen mask is removed his oxygen drops way down in the 60's and below. He basically is on max oxygen. We are at ends row as to what next could possibly be done to help him. He is 50 years old and the immune doc said it would take 3-6 mos for his immune system to build back to normal from the EMbreyol shots. He doesn't appear to have nearly that much time. He has nothing to fight bacterias until the immune systemm increases to fight it off...He is only 50 years old. Has anyone ever had lung bacterias from low immune systems caused by taking Embreol, if so, how was it treated and was it successful. Also, does anyone have a quick fix for the immune system? I would appreciate your input.

Thank you..bol7283

[James Pate]

Check out Carolyns story @ www.staphwash.com
That stuff really works.

[James Pate]

Check out Carolnys story @ www.staphwash.com
This stuff really works.

[April]

I worked for a school district...They had active CMV and MRSA... Then I got some boils/bumps on my back and then touched my face. They were huge..I just thought it was a huge pimple...now i am told that the dr should have ran a culture for MRSA but did not...they gave me the same treatment as a person with MRSA...However, I still have scars and a boil under the skin that they are now calling a bone infection and have ordered a CT Scan...Problem most offices do not want to do a scan with the MRSA on my referrel...so now I have to wait until the hospital can get me in...Is there anything else I can do?

[Lynn]

My 25 year old son got hurt at work on March 12, 2007 and had to have 48 stitches in his finger next to his thumb on right hand and 12 stitches in the second finger (same hand). The hospital sewed him up after only pouring betadine on them. He was a mechanic and his fingers were full of grease and oil from work. He developed a staph infection and was back and forth to the emergency room many many times. Finally on April 12, 2007 a doctor in Tampa, Florida went in and scraped his bones in his fingers because the infection had spread to the bones. They sent him home with a port in his arm and for the next two days a home health nurse came to our home to administer these antibiotics to him. On the third day, the doctor called and told my son he had MRSA and he was changing his medication to Vancomycin. During the first treatment of this medication, my son had a reaction and we lost him in our back yard. He had a intracerabral hemorrhage and was bleeding in his brain. They kept him alive until the next day so that I could donate his organs. He saved eight other people the day Jesus called him home. The doctors told me that they found a "trace" of cocaine in his urine, not in his blood, so of course the medical examiner ruled his death by "cocaine intoxication". The medical examiner also told me that there was no trace of any MRSA and that my boy was not sick, nor was his body run down. He was very ill at the time. The medical examiner also told me that if he had been using cocaine and it had been in his blood that they would not have been able to use his organ. Explain this one to me. I work in the legal field and believe me, they all cover up for each other.

[Jennifer]

You need to get Cipro this was used to kill my MRSA on my tummy last year, also my son on his knee, and my daughter from the back of thigh, and my husband had it on his elbow.
Everyone thought that it was a spider bite come to find out it was from an unclean hospital bed and it is mostly from dirty hospitals my son just went to get a physical to play baseball and 1 day later had mrsa then he passed unto us.
Have you doctor prescribe Cipro and it will not return. Then use warm compress on the area and you will have to squesse the blood and pus out or it will harden and take longer to heal.

[Candiss Brown]

Hi I noticed this red bump on my uper thigh I thought it mat have come from when I was out side doing some yard work I thought something may have bittem me but a month later another one came up so I went to the doctor and she told me this was what it was. She really didn't give me much info on this she gave me some drugs and told me to call her if another one came up. Becaue I reaolly didn't get that much info I went on the web to get info so I found this.

[Whiskey]

HI, I am a mother of two boys, 3 & 11 , my husband ownes & operates a local garage. one of our employee's (very close to family,kids are around him & shop all the time) has just gotten home from hospital he has MRSA in his blood & his lungs the pnumonia from it was very bad he spent 2 weeks in hospital, the cut open his chest & removed a piece of his lung, now I work in the health field so I know handwashing & standard precautions, BUT this is not at my work this is our second home & my children, can someone please tell me IS it safe for my children to be around him Or to have him working in our shop? He wants to come back to work next week?...

[cAROLYN rUSCHE]

I lost my baby brother and sister from MRSA , it kills

[denise]

Almost a year ago I was told that I had acquired a fungal infection on my hands, most likely from the acrylic nails I had at the time, and from my job as a bartender, always having wet hands, lemons, limes, and other irritants.
I went to the Doc, and he prescribed an anti-fungal creme, but to no avail.
Now, over the last 6 months or so I have recurring boils on my butt.
I am concerned that the two are connected, and may possibly be a type of staph.
Does anyone know of a possible correlation between the two symptoms?

[Lisa]

I recently developed a large abscess under my armpit. I had it lanced in the ER and was sent home with a high fever,nausea,and extreme arm pain. I was admitted to the hospital later that evening when the chills started again. I was pretty much septic, my body was getting overcome by infection. The next day Ihad pain in my chest,back and arm. MD was afraid it was necrotizing. I had an I&D done and turned up to be MRSA. I am still with daily packing wounds to my arm, it has been 4 weeks. I completed the Bactrim. My son is a type I diabetic and I am very afraid for him. Does anyone have any advice. No one has done a nasal swab on him or any of the other children Should I have this done? Someone help.

[Francesco]

I had pink eye 4 weeks ago and I developed a soar throat that does not go away; the sore spot in my throat seems to travel from the left to the right side and viceversa. Is this MRSA? a 4 week old soar throat and itchy watery eyes is not a cold or the flu. I hear about getting MRSA trhu your nose but not sore throat. Has anyone out there experience a long term sore throat and been diagnosed with MRSA? Please reply,

[Dave Roberts]

Only a test can confirm MRSA - but it usually manifests as a skin or wound infection

[Amanda]

My daughter has been infected several times. She was 1 day away from being put in the hospital the antibiotic kicked in just in time. The 4th time she had it we were sent to a dermatologist. He told us that she needed to be on leviquin for 3 weeks in order for it to be gone from the body. She also needed to wash from head to toe with a hospital grade antibacterial wash for a week. Insurance did not want to pay for the med it is over $400 for the 3 weeks. we could not afford it. Insurance paid for 2 weeks. She was fine for a while. It came back again this time we convinced the insurance company to pay for the full 3 weeks. She has not had a problem for months now. we also discovered that there is an ointment that kills the bacteria. we also discovered that Bacteen has the same main ingredient so now she also puts this on any cut or scratch that she gets cant hurt

[Meredith]

I just wanted to say my heart goes out to all of you, especially the little baby fighting for life. I have had no problems and have been an otherwise healthy and on the go mother of two. Exactly 6 weeks after the birth of my daughter I noticed something that resembled a spider bite.I passed it off as one of those post baby wierd things your body does while getting back on track. I did, however, continue to get these absesses and only when I noticed one on my daughter did I realize, and become educated, about MRSA. I took her in immediatly and she has not had a problem since. I, however, seem to get them, after treatment, every 2 months. I see my sister in law and brother and nephew all the time and they have a problem too, is there anything out there that I can do to permanently get rid of these superbugs? I heard tumeric works, but is there any truth to that? I need to get this under control before it spreads to my kids. I know I got it at the hospital, but there is no way to prove that besides common sense? Anyone have any suggestions on combat? =)

[Laura]

Is this MERSA ?
May 2oo6 after trip to mexico my boyfriend and I began developing extreme exhaustion,blurred vision,dark eye circles,and unhealing skin lesions.1st ER Dr.assumed hookworm advised over counter med.and skin quell.We worstened,2nd Dr.assumed impetigo script of Clindomyacin did nothing.3rd Er Dr. at Uconn (story to long to tell here,not to mention unbelievable)accused-selfmutilation,sharedparapsycosis,"sometimes relating to crystal meth use" was his guess -WHAT?said he wouldnt help me-He told me to take my own biopsy-threw a cup onto the mayo stand,I left sick and crying.My Dr. back from seminar had no clue sent me to Dermatology,that Dr. too busy sent in a RUDE Phys.asst.- wouldnt look at my sores until I let them heal.Thats why Im here THEY DON't HEAL!-went home in tears gave up!Still have sores 1.5 yrs later! Now MERSA appears,do I have this,whatsort of specialist will take time to skin scrape,look microscopically at samples and bloodwork.I'm in Ct.
Thanks for any help,Laura

[steph]

I found this website and need some help. MRSA has been found childrens school. Could you please comment me to educate me on how you contract this. I would really appreciate it. thanks

[steph]

Im really concerned about MRSA its now in schools. 3 cases have been reported at my childrens School. I dont know much about it could some email me to help educate me on how you get this, treatment, how to keep from getting it, etc. thanks

[Lynn]

My son who was 25 at the time of his death developed mrsa and was given vancomycin. During the first dosage of this medication, he had an allergic reaction and he is now our Angel in Heaven. Has anyone else had trouble with this drug??

[Evelyn Vincent]

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[lisa]

I am a 42 year old women. I had staph infection at age 25 after surgery. I am now having pain in my elbow that will not go away. I thought it was artritis, but none of the cures for that has worked. This pain is wierd and I believe I am starting to have night fever with it. Could this be a return of the staph from years ago? Or is it possibly septic staph. Please send your comments. next step is drs. who can't see me until next week. Thanks.

[james dudley]

I have mrsa I ended up with it because I have poems syndrome and that has caused me to have a weak imune system do to my illness and there is not a lot i can do about it. anything going around I have a very good chance of getting ill and there is not alot I can do about it accept get sick poems syndrome is fatal I have anywhere from 4 to 12 years to live so wish me luck and i will do the same for you thanks jim dudley

[Tim and Kimberly Costello]

Hi,
I know there are a lot of very serious issues posted here, Thankfully our issue is not so serious...yet, and we are trying to keep it so. I have 3 children 8,5,3. I have a very close friend who is HIV positive and has had repeated outbreaks of MRSA. His strain is a hospital acquired strain. My issue is that this man is basically an uncle to my children-sometimes bear-hugging, wrestling, etc. He has become very adept at recognizing the imminence of an outbreak and stays away from us, immediately seeks treatment and we do not see him until he is at least a week past his antibiotics. I am trying to determine how much risk my children are being exposed to, particularly because of the bear-hugging, ie: skin to skin contact.
Do I need to tell my friend he must refrain from these types of activities with my children completely in order to be safe with them?(even when it's been months since any outbreak?) I feel we take great care-my friend and I-to assure that he is not a danger to my kids, and the thought of saying this to him breaks my heart. It is so hard to find definitive answers out there--any guidance or help would be appreciated greatly.
Thanks--this is one of the best sites i have found--thank you so much.
The costellos

[Linda]

Hi I went to a new Dr.'s office.I have many things wrong with me from type 1 dieabets to triple by pass and all the things that go with that. It is easier to say what parts I still have than not. anyway just two days after going to this new clinic this lump starts on my shoulder blade I thought maybe an in grown pimple the next day double in size, I call the Dr, and can get in next day. that morning it has tripled in size. I have no open wound cut or anything to explain this. Dr. says dieabets infection. Gives me prescription antibatics. 5 days worth end of 5 days not better. call Dr. office they say can't give any more antibiatics come in next week. Pain so bad can't sleep for days feels like shoulder blade bone is eating away. Dr. finally takes culture swab and cuts open to drain,it stopped draining the next day waiting for culture to come back. Dr. not to helpful doesn't know how I got it or if it goes away will it ever come back.couyld I have gotten it when they listtened to heart beats with that thing. It was put all over my back. I can't think of any way else. Meds takijng now I have to take for ten{10] days. any info anyone can help me with I will be greatful. thanks

[Susan Downing]

My son has just been diagnosed with MERSA under his arm pit. It has be lanced and he has been given an antibiotic. He has a ticket to the Phillipines and says he is going. Should I try to get him to stay here and not go to the Phillipines?

[bennysmom]

hi guys i am 46 and have had a mersa spot on my breast sicne halowwen been on many anitbitcs seems like it is getting smaller
which is good and also using altabax on spot and keeping it covered up with a bandage and constant bra weraing ,and thank god it is not in my blood stream .i feel for all you guys that have had it really bad i will say prayers for all of you.m y question is have any of you folks used tea tree oil on the area and has it helped i g back to dr on thursday.hoping i dont need more antibiotics ahhhh .but if i do i guess i do.i am on tetracyclene beacuse i am allergic to the sulfa drugs and the zyvon i cant take because of other meds i take and it has strong possibility of bad interaction.i feelfor all yu folks but glad there are others that i can relate too about this icky bug. and i am washing my hands like crazy more than i ever have.thanks for letting me vent

tammy

[kris]

I am wondering if I have this. My mother was "freaking out" about this on the phone with me so I agreed to research it.

Yesterday morning my nose started swelling near my left nostril. It was not noticeable at first, and there was no discoloration. I had what appeared to be clear blisters that were getting larger. Around lunch time I dabbed at them with a tissue and the fluid drained. I was putting tea tree oil and acyclovir cream on the spot, which was concentrated and has not spread. As the day progressed, it started to look pretty icky, like Emperor Palpatine from the Star Wars movies, but I believe that's just because the nose has so many blood vessels. I had a very full day and did not try to see a doctor, mainly because the area didn't look bad until last night.

Any sort of ointment (I'm now using an antibacterial as well) seemed to cause more fluid to literally pool on top of the skin. Last night some of the fluid was pinkish. I just kept dabbing and cleaning.

This morning the fluid seems to be gone and I'm left with a nasty scab. I have been washing with antibacterial soap and actually feel the blisters are healing. There is no pain, but I do seem to be running a mild fever (99.8ish).

I teach in a middle school and have had mysterious blisters similar to this before. This is different in that it doesn't itch or hurt at all. I am very tired, but then, it's a busy time of year for teachers.

Any thoughts?

k

[Pat O'Brien]

HAND WASHING ALONE is NOT the answer to MRSA!

Please don’t take your local health department as the last word on MRSA…even the CDC is putting out some misleading information because they are trying to prevent a panic.

My company is working with many of the schools that have been affected by MRSA. To my knowledge we have the only national firm that is successfully cleaning up CA-MRSA. Most health experts are grossly in the dark when it comes to advising school system administrators how to deal with MRSA.

When health officials say it is not a problem… they are usually speaking of hospital acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) however, what we are seeing in our schools is
CA-MRSA…Community Acquired. (CA) it is a more virulent strain and it can be… and is …a killer.

Sanitization alone will not protect your children. Sanitization must be followed with a second step by applying a microbial inhibitor with a durable protective coating to the surfaces of the building. If this step is eliminated the surface will quickly become infected again. Another way is to purify the air with a NASA certified UV light system. We recommend both under certain situations because MRSA is also airborne despite many health officials’ opinions.

We have a permanent solution to CA-MRSA clean-up. It is a 3-step process that can be done 72-hours from the time you call in any U.S. city. We sanitize, protect, and purify the air your students breathe. We also offer a 3-year service warrantee program

Pat O’Brien
CEO
www.airtechsolutions4u.com

[Betty]

Can you someone tell me all the syptoms of MRSA ?

[Jennifer]

I am sitting with my husband at the hospital. He has been here for 4 weeks. We almost lost him. My husband started with right shoulder pain for 3 days. We thought it was an ortho problem, he is very active and had played 2 hours of bball before it happened. After 3 days went to ortho doc and got a cortizone shot. Within 24 hours, shoulder swelled, fever, shortness of breath, and pain in back & chest. Took him to ER next thing I knew he was being put on a ventilator. He is 37, healthy, extremely active (bikes 50 miles can play bball non-stop for over 2 hours every week). He tested positive in the shoulder, lungs, blood, and sinuses. I think the shot progressed it. Anyway, the infectious disease docs seem to treat like they are seeing this all the time. I don't get it. I am scared to take him home. I will be watching over him like our kids. He is now off the vent, but will have 3 weeks of physical therapy and about a year before his chest xray will be normal. They tell us if was not young, good health, and active he would have died. We are blessed. It is sarey how quickly it can come this disease can progress.

[karen]

we just found out this past weekend that my husbands 32 yr old daughter has MRSA. It has gone into her bloodstream. She fell and hurt her back originally and went to the ER via ambulance. She was released then returned to her regular dr at a different hospital with severe stomach cramps. Saturday she was having trouble breathing and they put her on a ventilator. Her breathing rate was 150 and her temp was 104 at times. She developed pnuemonia, along with the fluid in her lungs, she has fluid building up in her pelvic region. Sunday her breathing got worse, so they paralyzed her and now is on the ventilator 100%. As of today, Monday, Jan 7th, they are giving her a 50/50 chance of survival.
The antibiotics have not begun to do their jobs yet. The MRSA is so much stronger than the meds, that it is fighting harder than she is. We fear the worst and are making plans to take the trip out of state.
We still don't know what direction this is going to take. She is still in critical, but stable condition after the last report from her brother.

[Jody Colquitt]

I contracted MRSA in October 2007 in Iraq. I got back to the states in December and have gotten worse every since. I have been coughing up blood since Jan 4 2007 and they have no idea why? Anyone else had anything similiar?

[Glenda]

My husband came down with MRSA about a year ago. He has had several bouts with it. Now I have come down with it, this is my second time. We have both taken Bactrum and it goes away, only to return in a few months. The one I have now is on my leg. It is a red bump with a ring of red hard skin around it. I am on antiobotic Amoxicillin 500mg for a root canal. Can I take the Bactrum with being on the other? Will this ever go away? Thanks for any help!

[Grace]

My brother has MRSA its on his leg and he has holes in his skin because of this disease.This disease is scary and i dont like it!!! Its killing people and its contagious thats the scariest part!!! I dont want my brother to die his only nine!!!! :(

[Peter]

Well...........here we go AGAIN, perhaps with yet another "nothing can touch me gay generation of young foolish men and their "sexual desires". In San Francisco, where so many runaways and throwaways (as in "You're GAY ??!! GET OUT !) run to find "freedom" and "acceptance", younger gay men are contracting this horrible new "bug". It just seems like things never end.......AIDS killed so many, here in the USA and abroad, then other frightening diseases appear, and now this one ! All that cheap promiscuity (i.e. "sleeping around with 'whoever') just isn't worth the price you might end up paying......including death !!
Sigh.

[Hailey]

A friend's 22yo son who had colon surgery due to colitis , now was diagnosed with MRSA. His pic line supposedly the site of the infection. Is it possible that the removal of his colon had anything to do with it? His surgery was just over a month ago. He also had a severe case of Listeria about 8 months ago. Could any of this be related?

[adam]

i have been diagnosed with mrsa.the boils on my forhead seem to be drying up but my eyes are swelling shut.i just want to know if thats normal

[Bruce]

For everyone out there suffering from the infection on their skin, try taking Turmeric capsules, this will keep the infection in check and minimize your outbreaks that can lead to further infections of others as well as additional boils on yourself. Also, putting Turmeric on the boil will keep it from growing.
One comment I read here said that the doctor told their patient to squeeze the boil in the shower; do not squeeze it as it will force the infection deeper into the skin tissue and possibly into the blood stream. The drainage alone can cause further infection on other areas of the skin and must be contained to the infected area. Never touch anything that has been exposed to the drainage without protection.
Doctors are clueless when it comes to MRSA, each one will have their own treatment, misdiagnosis or agenda (i.e., tell you something is normal and not to worry, or that you had the infection previously to avoid a contamination or a lawsuit.)
The AMA is no help, the CDC is no help. Educate yourself, research and look into alternative ways to treat it because these doctors are just throwing antibiotics at it and hoping for the best.
There are many things that can be done at home to reduce and virtually eradicate the infection.
Sugar will make the bacteria thrive, cut down on sweets, eat lots of garlic, turmeric, spicy foods.
Obviously hygiene is very important for controlling the spread of the bacteria.

[Joan Phillips]

My sister in law died from MRSA last week, she had gotten it into her blood stream and it went into her lungs, than her heart, kidney...etc., Two days after she died her daughter was diagnoiced with it on her skin....What I want to know is how long it takes before it can get into the blood stream? Could she have gotten it from the hospital on Sunday and be dead by Thursday?

[Michelle]

Ok so I had a boil that formed in the matter of 2 days it swelled up to about the size of a grapefruit! I went to the ER they made an insision and packed it and sent me on my way......Went to the doctor yesterday and she said by looking at it its Mrsa they did a cultur of it and will find out 100% today :( I will be out of work for 2 weeks she said and I have to return to the Doctors Everyday to check on it so I dont end up in the Hospital......My question is do you have any advice on how to make sure this isn't a re-acuring thing...I wouldnt wish this on my worst enomy, it is the most painfull thing to have to go through, And if I were Prego what would happen whould the unborn baby would it have Problems or if the Mrsa is in your bloodstream what does this mean for the baby???

[claire]

I am affraid to have to inform you that i couldn't and didn't find your article very factual or true to everyday events that occur to prevent and treat infection in and around the workplace and home i myself endure the task of maintaining my own hygiene especially hands to prevent cross contamination to myself, collegues and family members. I myself also have to endure the seemingly thankless task to consider other peoples hygiene weather it be hand or other intimate areas, Especially as i work within a care setting for the elderly, Who are unable at times to maintain there own daily level of cleanliness therefor leaving them susceptible to such disabilitating and even deadly infections like mrsa, mssa, C difficile, So in the future the facts can and often speak louder than all the terminology used in your unhelpful passage maybe in future facts are easier to follow and comprehend, Thank you, Yours sincerely and full of praise,
Mrs C Ward
D/M Southern Cross Health care
United Kingdom

[Amy]

I recently found out that my boyfriend's mother, whom we live with, contracted MRSA when she broke her toe. She has been treated with antibiotics so far. My boyfriend, though, has had a couple of boils come up. We drain and bandage them everyday but I am concerned that he has not yet been to the doctor to find out if it's anything more serious. I am also 6 months pregnant and not sure if I should even be in the house with them until we know that all is well. Please help me figure out what we should do from here.

[kim mason]

my mom is 72 and had a surgery on her foot , now has staff infection and mrsa , anyone no why she has blood in urine and stool , why is that , can any one help

[Barbara]

For Sharon: The difference between a rehab facility and a nursing home are important to identify. Certain nursing homes are also called "skilled nursing facility" (SNF) They will have the well trained therapists that can help your husband (PT, OT) Their requirements are for fewer hours of treatment per day. Rehab in a hospital requires three total hours of therapy per day, five days a week. SNF "Skilled Nursing Facility" (SNF) will require one and half hours of therapy per day five days a week. Lessening the amount of time he is in therapy may allow him to heal more and progress to home just as well. Folks generally have a bad feeling about "Nursing Homes" but it is not a dead end, therapy can continue at a slower pace but patients get discharged to their own homes just as often. Go and visit, look at all the options. More time may equal getting home sooner and your goals will be accomplished.

[Tamara]

The MSRA is back again! The doctors aren't giving Jennie and Aaron any advise that they haven't had already. Abigail keeps getting this super bug, this is the fourth time. The doctors are saying that the virus dies when it's off of the body. So she takes antibiotics for about 30 days and is clear for 21 days, then she gets it again, where in the world is it coming from! The doctor told them that they need to be more clean, ok, Jennie has continued to bleach everything and keeps antibacterial wipes in her purse so when she's out in the public she can clean Abigail’s hands and face. Abigail’s skin is raw from the surgical soap baths and antibacterial soap she has to be cleaned with! Just how clean is that! I seriously have doubts that the medical doctors have no idea how to get rid of this MRSA.
Please pray for the doctors to have wisdom to treat her, for strength for Aaron and Jennie, and for Abigail to be totally cured from this horrible virus.
Thank You,
Abigail's Memaw

Please read Jennie's note below;

Today has been a very frustrating Day. After numerous attempts to receive medical attention my frustration levels rose because no one is giving Abigail’s situation the attention she deserves. My faith in the health care support system has disappeared like my daughter medical records. What ever happened to doctors caring about their patents... instead of worrying about being compensated for their valuable time, energy and resources?

MRSA is an excruciating and horrible disease that no one especially not a child should ever have to experience. Abigail is not yet 2 yrs old and since October of last year has had to endure 10 painful boils on her little body and we have not found a doctor educated enough on MRSA who can help our little girl get better and never have to feel the pain her fragile body has to feel. She has to be quarantined from all those she knows and who love her because when the boils become bigger and start to form above the skin she becomes contagious. If a boil breaks on its own the disease will spread further and become worse and anyone who comes into contact and is not aware and educated on proper protocol on how to protect themselves will fall prey to the disease as well. Aaron or I could be carriers and not even know because doctors haven’t taken our situation seriously. After a long day of agonizing pain that Abigail had to endure I knew I needed to do something immediately to ease her suffering. I took Abigail down to the emergency room where I was hassled once again over more paperwork Abigail was finally able to be examined. The boil on her buttock was the size of a marble and is the second boil that has been surgically drained. The doctors have prescribed oral medication and we are waiting on approval to see a specialist tomorrow. Abigail is such a blessing to us and all those who have the fortune of knowing her, one minute with her and you fall in love with her. Please take the time to pray for our little girl. Take the time out your busy lives and pray for the most precious baby girl you will ever have the fortune to meet. Take a minute and give her your heart and pray for Abigail.

[Sam]

Every single posting of someone who has MRSA on an external part of their body should ALWAYS post an image of what their version looks like. This way everyone can get to know more about it.

[Kellie Gregory]

I hacve been dealing with MERSA for more than 2 years now. I take my IV everyday I have had 3 pieces taken of my foot I erfuse to let tham have my foot, so just pray ask God to dry up that invection in JESUS name...........

[Brenda M]

My father is in a nursing home recovering from hip surgery. He has been diagnosed with MRSA. I have MS and need to know if I am at risk if I'm visiting him, and what I can do to protect myself without giving up visiting, or if I should not go at all Any ideas/suggestions/help?

[MIMI]

ON MARCH 20TH 2008 I NOTICED WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A ANT BITE ON MY STOMACH,WITHIN 2 DAYS IT WAS RED,SWOLLEN AND INFECTED AND IT WAS PAINFUL.I SHOWED IT TO A COUPLE OF MY COWORKERS AND THEY TOLD ME IT LOOKS LIKE A SPIDER BITE AND SUGGESTED I SEE A DOCTOR.WELL I DIDN'T GO TO THE DOCTOR BUT BY DAY 7 I COULDN'T SLEEP BECAUSE OF THE PAIN.SO ON MARCH 27TH,2008 I SHOWED IT TO MY SUPERVISOR AND HE BASICALLY ORDERED ME TO GO SEE A DOCTOR RIGHT AWAY.I LEFT MY JOB AND WENT TO A WALK IN CLINIC,THE DOCTOR TOLD ME IT WAS MRSA JUST BY LOOKING AT IT HE TOLD ME I SHOULD GO TO THE E.R RIGHT AWAY.I WENT TO THE E.R AND HAD SURGERY WIHIN AN HOUR OR SO I WAS PUT ON BACTRIM AND MY WOUND WAS PACKED.I HAVE NOT HEALED COMPLETELY BUT I FEEL ALOT BETTER.I HAD DARK CIRCLES AROUND MY EYES AND WAS ALWAYS TIRED I ALSO HAD ALOT OF JOINT PAIN.WHICH THE DOCTOR SAID WERE SOME OF THE SYMPTOMS.I STILL DON'T KNOW HOW I CONTRACTED MRSA.MY HUSBAND WAS ADMITTED AT THE HOSPITAL THE WEEK PRIOR AND I STAYED WITH HIM.I ALSO HAD A DOCTORS APPOINTMENT MYSELF 2 DAYS BEFORE I NOTICED THE PIMPLE OR BOIL.NO ONE ELSE IN MY FAMILY HAS MRSA.I BELIEVE I WILL BE COMPLETELY HEALED IN A COUPLE OF WEEKS.((ADVICE))BATH WITH HIBICLENS AT LEAST 2 TIMES A DAY.USE PAPER TOWELS TO DRY YOUR HANDS WHILE BEING TREATED.CLEAN YOUR TUB WITH BLEACH AFTER YOU BATH.UP YOUR VITAMIN INTAKE AND DRINK MORE ORANGE JUICE.EAT HEALTHY LOTS OF VEGGIES AND PROTEIN.SPRAY YOUR HOUSE WITH LYSOL AT LEAST TWICE A DAY.WIPE DOWN SURFACES WITH SANATIZED WIPES.CUT DOWN YOUR NAILS...

[JANET PETRONELLA]

ONE OF MY FRIENDS WHO IS 62 YEARS OLD HAD A PIMPLE ON HIS LEFT LEG,IT GOT INFECTED AND HE HAD IT OPERATED ON AND DRAINED OUT,THIS WAS 2 MONTHS AGO,RECENTLY HE WAS BACK IN THE HOSPITAL WITH WORSENING SYMPTOMS IN REGARDS TO THIS INFECTION,A FRIEND OF MY FRIEND NOTIFIED ME OF HIS RECENT HOSPITAL STAY AND THE FACT HE WASNT DOING SO GOOD,THIS GOT MY MIND GOING,I PUT 2 AND 2 TOGETHER AND I CAME UP WITH THE FACT THAT MY FRIEND HAD COTRACTED MERSA,HES DIABETIC AND THATS ANOTHER RISK FACTOR FOR MERSA.I HOPE THEY CAN CLEAR THIS MANS AILMENT AS GOOD AS THEY CAN,BECAUSE I KOW THIS DISEASE COULD BE FATAL TO SOME PEOPLE.

My 11 month old keeps getting stys inher eyes, are these considered MRSA ?? I am very worried. im useing an anitbotic cream but it dont seemt o help, she still has one