An MRSA boil starts in a hair follicle or oil gland. The skin will turn red and a tender lump develops. Often, after four to seven days, pus collecting under the skin gives the area a white appearance. Boils may appear on the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, buttocks or eyelid (sty.)
A cluster of boils is a more serious condition called a carbuncle. The mrsa bacteria enter the body through tiny nicks or cuts in the skin or can travel down the hair to the follicle.
MRSA Boil Treatment
Seek medical advice if the boil persists or several develop. The first treatment may be simple incision and drainage. You will be given a dressing to help stem any further infection. Depending on the nature, extent and persistence of the boil(s) you may be given antibiotic treatment. If you are being recolonized by household member contact, family pets or some other source then handwashing 5-7 times a day will help cut the chain of infection and regular daily baths or showers will help protect you skin. More information on other MRSA skin conditions and popular MRSA questions below.
What is an MRSA Boil?
What is MRSA Cellulitis?
What is an MRSA Abscess?
MRSA and Impetigo
What is MRSA Follicultis?
What is MRSA Erythema?
What is MRSA Eczema?
MRSA Carbuncle & Furuncles
What is MRSA?
What are the symptoms of MRSA?
How is MRSA treated?