

MRSA Quiz: Infection Symptoms & Treatment

Reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP on October 26, 2017
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Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) describes a specific type of staph bacterium that is resistant to many antibiotics.

True False

Is MRSA contagious?

MRSA is contagious. It is a bacterium that can be transmitted from person-to-person, or it can even be picked up by touching a surface where the bacteria are present. Some people seem to be more susceptible to MRSA infections.

Yes No

A commonly used word to describe MRSA is...

A "superbug" is a common term used to describe bacteria or other microorganisms that are resistant or have become resistant to common medical treatments. In this case, a Staph bacterium has become resistant to the most commonly used antibiotics.

Superbug E. coli Salmonella Rash

MRSA bacteria are most likely found...

In U.S. hospitals, MRSA causes more than 60% of Staph infections. Additionally, MRSA outbreaks occur in diverse types of people who are constantly in close contact, such as team players of contact sports, dormitory residents, inmates, and armed-services personnel.

In the air In hospitals

Some of us carry MRSA bacteria in our...

The nose, armpits, groin, and buttocks are areas of our skin that contain large amounts of Staph bacteria. The nose and nasal passages can become colonized (harbor bacteria) with MRSA.

Mouths Noses Eyes Throats

What is the best defense against MRSA?

Using good hygiene, frequently washing hands, and avoiding contact with people known to have MRSA are the best ways to avoid the disease. There is currently no vaccine for MRSA.

Good hygiene Avoiding antibiotics Vaccine All of the above

MRSA most often enters the body through droplets from coughing or sneezing.

MRSA is most often spread through direct contact with the bacteria and your skin. Prevent MRSA with proper hygiene such as hand washing, keeping wounds clean and covered, and not sharing personal hygiene items.

True False

MRSA can cause sepsis, which is an infection of the blood.

Any bacterial or viral infection can cause sepsis, which is a severe infection of the blood that can be life-threatening or fatal. Severe MRSA infections of the skin, sinuses, or upper respiratory system can overwhelm the body's immune defenses and lead to sepsis.

True False

A MRSA skin infection can often mimic a ________________.

A MRSA skin infection can often mimic a spider bite. MRSA skin infections tend to cause pockets of infection called abscesses. These abscesses can become full of pus and can be very painful. These abscesses start out as very small pimple-like red bumps and they are often confused for insect or spider bites.

Cut Scrape Spider bite Stye

MRSA infections can cause complications such as...

Though most MRSA infections are on the skin, other body systems can become susceptible to MRSA infections. MRSA infection of the lungs can lead to pneumonia. Severe and rapidly spreading Staph infections of the skin can result in "flesh-eating" disease (necrotizing fasciitis). Any severe MRSA infection can result in death.

"Flesh-eating" disease Pneumonia Death All of the above

The skin condition cellulitis can be caused by MRSA or by other bacterial types.

Cellulitis is an infection of the skin. The infected skin appears red, and is tender and warm to the touch. Any type of bacterial infection in the skin can cause cellulitis, including MRSA.

True False

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