Controlling MRSA In The Community Setting

Community-Associated MRSA has emerged in the general population as a frequent cause of skin infections (boils, abscesses, furuncles, etc.), and occasionally more invasive infections in healthy individuals lacking the usual risk factors for bacterial infection.

Outbreaks of CA-MRSA have been described in numerous community settings and among varied population.  CA-MRSA is most frequently transmitted when the following conditions, characterized by the CDC as the % C’s, are present:

1. Crowding many people in close quarters or proximity for periods of time.
2. Contact (skin-to-skin contact), such as sports activities.
3. Compromised skin (cuts or abrasions).
4. Contaminated items or surfaces.
5. Lack of Cleanliness

The prevalence of CA-MRSA calls for awareness, education, and control measures in a variety of community settings.