Pathogens
Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Precautions

Contact Precautions

General Information

Gram positive cocci in clusters, coagulase positive.

Can be broadly divided into health-care associated (HA) and community associated (CA).

HA-MRSA is associated with many hospital associated infections ranging from minor/severe skin and soft tissue infections to bloodstream infections and severe pneumonia. It also causes many device associated infection and prosthetic infections.

Based on the 2021 antibiogram, TBRHSC MRSA rate is 47%.

CA-MRSA is associated with skin and soft tissue infections (e.g. abscesses) and necrotizing pneumonias. However, it can also cause many severe infections as with HA-MRSA.

Similar to S. aureus:

  • Pyogenic skin and soft tissue infection
  • MSK infection
  • Endocarditis
  • Abscess
  • Pneumonia
  • Infection of prosthetic devices
  • Others

May also require droplet precautions if MRSA in sputum and coughing.