Seeking Care for MRSA Skin Iinfections

Health

Promoting and Protecting the City's Health


Health TopicsNeighborhood HealthEmergency Prep


Seeking Care for MRSA Skin Infections

How Can I Tell If I Have MRSA?

MRSA is commonly mistaken for a spider bite. If a cut or wound is red, swollen, painful and pus-filled, this could be a sign that your cut or wound is infected. Cover the area with a bandage and contact your doctor. Only your doctor can determine whether it is MRSA or another type of skin infection.

When Should I See a doctor?

Seeing your doctor early can prevent the infection from becoming worse. A skin infection can spread to other parts of your body and become more serious, even fatal. If a wound is not healing, or is getting worse, see a doctor, especially if you also have a fever and chills.

How Is MRSA Treated?

Your doctor may drain pus from the infected area and collect a specimen to determine if you have MRSA.

If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, follow the instructions and take the pills until they are all gone or until your doctor tells you to stop.

Why Can't I Just Take Someone Else's Antibiotics?

Antibiotics may not work if they were prescribed for someone else, or for another medical condition. And the delay in effective treatment can allow the infection to spread to other parts of the body and become more serious, even fatal. By taking an ineffective antibiotic, you are giving the infection a chance to learn to get around more antibiotics.

Can I Get MRSA Again?

Yes, you can get MRSA again, in the same location or in another place on the body. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to reduce the risk of becoming re-infected.

Am I at Increased Risk for MRSA If I have Another Medical Condition?

Some people with diabetes, HIV, or other conditions that affect the body's ability to deal with infections may want to talk to their doctor about increased risk for complications from MRSA. They should also protect themselves by keeping a close watch on any wounds or sores for signs of infection.

More Information

MRSA: Main Page

MRSA: FAQ

MRSA: Prevention

MRSA: Children

MRSA: Athletes

MRSA: Drug Users

MRSA: Gay Men

MRSA: Educators and Administrators