MRSA carriers can either have an active infection or be colonized by the bacteria, posing a risk to others. Thorough hand washing and hygiene practices are essential, and decolonization may be necessary. It’s difficult to avoid becoming a carrier, but good hygiene can help.
A methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or a MRSA carrier can be defined in two ways. It is someone who has an active MRSA infection or is a carrier of the disease and is therefore infectious to other people. The most commonly used definition is that a MRSA carrier is someone who carries or has been colonized by the bacteria, usually in the nasal passages. Such people or animals as dogs may or may not show signs of active disease, but they can pass the bacteria on to others.
All humans have some amount of bacteria on and in their bodies, and sometimes these germs opportunistically view a body as an ideal home in which to live and reproduce. Many people carry staph germs in their nasal passages, and some people, perhaps 1-4 percent of the population, carry methicillin-resistant staph germs. It is difficult when people are “colonized”, but not sick, because they don’t know they are a risk to others, and that risk varies depending on the state of the other people and the level of hygiene of the carrier. A MRSA carrier who comes into contact with a person who has an open wound or who is medically vulnerable poses a great risk, especially if that carrier is not very good at washing their hands regularly.
Generally, people are identified as MRSA carriers if they have multiple MRSA infections or if those living near them, such as in household settings, have repeated outbreaks. The primary test for this is a nasal swab, although skin infections could also be cultured. If a test comes back positive, there are several options.
A person who is a MRSA carrier may choose not to receive treatment, but will need to change their behavior to protect others. Thorough hand washing is essential, and as bacteria can spread easily around the skin, showering with a special soap is recommended. People will also need to avoid anyone who is in a medically vulnerable state.
The alternative is decolonization, where MRSA is attacked with different drugs. Special drops are used in the nose, specific soaps are used in the shower, and patients may also be given a course of oral antibiotics which are effective against bacteria. Decolonization is a challenge in a household where there may be several active carriers and all may need treatment to rid the body of these bacteria and avoid reinfection.
Many wonder how they can avoid becoming a MRSA carrier. It can be very difficult to avoid because this bacteria is prevalent. It’s best to practice good hand washing and avoid exposure to things like sores or open wounds. It is anticipated, however, that higher incidences of community MRSA will likely lead to more carriers. In light of the anticipated increases, good hygiene is emphasized.
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