http://ilovebacteria.com/mrsa.htmAs an athlete, one may think that the most catastrophic thing that can happen is getting a severe physical injury, but one never stops to think that there is more out there that can keep you out of the game for a long time. Skin infections, such as MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), are among those that can prevent you from playing.
What is MRSA?
MRSA is "a gram-positive bacterium that colonizes on the skin" (Saben, 33). This infection is common among athletes. Most do not know that they are infected. It appears like a small, red pimple that later grows into a boil and collects pus. MRSA not only infects skin tissue but lung and muscle tissue, as well as blood. This is life-threatening for the infected person.
How can one get MRSA?
MRSA transmits through direct contact, either by touching an infected person or by wearing infected clothing. Athletes are the most at risk of getting infected due to their constant exposure to other athletes, sharing of personal equipment, "public" locker rooms, and showers. The athletes at a higher risk of infection are football players and wrestlers.
How can one treat MRSA?
MRSA can be treated with antibiotics such astrimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Saben, 35). It is best and easier to treat at an early stage. MRSA is highly contagious "with published reports of up to 70% of infected team members requiring hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics" (D.J., 557-562).
Watch this video for more detailed information about MRSA.
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