Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as "staph," is a type of bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Sometimes, staph can cause an infection. Staph bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. Most of these skin infections are minor (such as pustules and boils) and can be treated without antibiotics. However, staph bacteria also can cause serious infections (such as surgical wound infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia).

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) refers to types of staph that are resistant to a type of antibiotic methicillin. MRSA is often resistant to other antibiotics, as well. While 25% to 30% of the population is colonized with staph (meaning that bacteria are present, but not causing an infection with staph), approximately 1% is colonized with MRSA.

The Washington Department of Health monthly bulletin for March 2008 focuses on the threat and treatment of MRSA pneumonia:

In January 2007 CDC received reports of ten cases of severe community-acquired MRSA pneumonia resulting in hospitalization or death, an unexpectedly high number...

Healthcare providers should consider MRSA as a possible cause of pneumonia when treating severe community-acquired pneumonia, particularly if outpatient antibiotic therapy has failed or disease is progressing rapidly. In addition to other indicated cultures such as blood or pleural effusion the healthcare provider should obtain a sputum culture for such cases. Previously known as a hospital-acquired infection, MRSA has emerged and become established as a community-acquired cause of skin and soft tissue infections in healthy persons. Parallel with the increase in MRSA there has been an increase in MRSA community-acquired pneumonia cases in this country during influenza season. The trend is likely to continue into
the future as MRSA becomes more common in communities. Reducing infections and providing timely appropriate treatment are essential for patient care.

MRSA Pneumonia prevention

MRSA Bacteria Clumps

• obtain annual influenza vaccination, particularly if in a recommended group
• practice good hygiene
• maintain wound care with skin infections that could be staph
• consult a healthcare provider for respiratory or skin infections
• if you have flu or pneumonia notify your healthcare provider of recent MRSA infections
among you and your close contacts