This "super bug" exists on human skin or in the noses of healthy people where it is fairly harmless. However, if there is the slightest cut or abrasion on the skin, MRSA is able to enter the bloodstream. It can be deadly. It will attack anyone, young or old, male or female, healthy or sickly.
The Center for Disease Control says that MRSA is virtually always spread by direct physical contact and not through the air. It can be spread through indirect contact by touching objects such as towels, clothes, workout areas or sports equipment that have been contaminated by the infected skin of a person with MRSA. It begins as a small pimple or boil on the skin. It can be successfully treated with antibiotics at this stage. People with ostomies have the added risk of contacting MRSA under their skin barrier. It is advised always to wash one's hands with soap and water before touching the peristomal skin. This reduces the possibility of transferring some bacteria or fungus to the skin under the skin barrier, an ideal location for bacteria or fungus to grow; i.e., dark, warm and moist.
The Center for Disease Control Recommend the following to reduce the risk on contracting MRSA:
