Expert advice on MRSA
'MRSA infections are a particular problem in hospitals. Some patients harbour MRSA on their skin or nose without harm (such patients are said to be "colonised"). Although it is usually harmless at these sites, it may occasionally get into the body and cause infections. These infections may be mild, eg pimples or boils, or serious, eg infection of the bloodstream, bones or joints. Patients at increased risk of developing such infection include those with breaks in their skin due to wounds, or indwelling catheters [a tube to drain urine from the bladder] which allow MRSA to enter the body, and those with certain types of deficiency in their immune system, such as low numbers of white cells in their blood. Patients with infections often need antibiotics.'
Dr Alan Johnson, clinical scientist, Public Health Laboratory Service
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