The MRSA sores look like a spider bite and have swollen areas that will eventually look similar to a patch of swollen bumps. These are normally pink or white in color. MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus auerus) is a bacteria that causes skin infections. The bacteria can spread rapidly through the body and is highly contagious. These infections are resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics. The MRSA virus has been affecting nursing homes and hospitals since the 70s. It is spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the infection or someone whom the bacteria colonise. It can also spread through contact with sheets, towels, clothing and dressings. These objects will have needed to have been in contact with someone with the bacteria. The bacteria have to pass through the skin, normally through a bite, cut or scratch. MRSA can become airborne when making beds if a bed sheet is shaken as skin scales carry the bacteria and these can contaminate other surfaces. MRSA has been classed as a "superbug" by the UK media because of its ability to survive for long periods on door handles, sinks, floors, cleaning equipment and other objects. The bacterium has become more prevalent since 2002 and up until recently only affected nursing homes and hospitals. MRSA has now entered schools, and therefore homes, offices, shops and anything we touch. If a person contracts MRSA they should cover the infected area with clean, dry bandages until the sores have healed and follow hospital advice on caring for the sores. An antibiotic treatment will be required to be followed. MRSA can affect different people in different ways; some may contract a mild MRSA whilst others can contract a severe case of MRSA.
