20 Warning Signs of a Staph Infection And What to Do About Them

11. MRSA: The Resistant Strain

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a dangerous strain of staph bacteria that has developed resistance to many common antibiotics, making it particularly difficult to treat. MRSA infections often occur in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings where individuals may have weakened immune systems or open wounds. Symptoms of MRSA include red, swollen, and painful areas of skin, fever, and pus-filled sores. Left untreated, MRSA can lead to serious complications, including sepsis and infections in the lungs, bones, and heart. Preventing MRSA involves practicing good hygiene, avoiding the sharing of personal items like towels or razors, and properly cleaning wounds. If diagnosed with MRSA, patients may require specialized antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgical interventions to remove infected tissue. The rise of MRSA highlights the importance of early treatment and responsible antibiotic use to reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains.