Bacterial Infections
What is methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)?

Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria that is commonly found on the skin and in the noses of healthy people—up to 30% of adults. These bacteria can normally be killed by antibiotics, but over time, some become able to resist the effects of certain antibiotics. When Staphylococcus aureus bacteria become resistant to the antibiotic methicillin, they are called "methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus" or MRSA, and they are more difficult to treat than non-resistant bacteria.

In general, Staphylococcus aureus bacteria tend to infect the skin, often causing boils. However, they can also travel through the bloodstream and infect almost any site in the body. If left untreated, MRSA infections may develop into serious, life-threatening complications by infecting the bloodstream, the bones or the lungs. People with weakened immune systems and chronic illnesses are most susceptible to these infections.