MRSA Blood Infection: Symptoms, Risks & Prevention

The Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) virus is a form of resistant staph. The very young, very old and people with suppressed immune systems are most susceptible. Symptoms are usually first seen on the skin.

Dangers

• Most symptoms of MRSA show up in or just under the the skin. Infection can spread to other organs. In those cases, MRSA can become a serious illness.

Abscesses and Carbuncles

• Abscesses are collections of pus beneath the skin, and carbuncles are similar to abscesses but are larger and have several openings draining the puss.

Cellulitis

• Cellulitis is an infection of the fatty tissue beneath the skin. It usually starts out as small red bumps and feels warm to the touch.

Impetigo

• Pus-filled blisters that form on the skin are called impetigo. They usually occur around the nose but can also appear on the arms and legs.

Boils

• Boils are pus filled hair follicles. Boils can be extremely painful and may need medical attention.