What is MRSA?

MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a type of bacteria or germ that is harder to treat because some antibiotics do not work on it. It can live on the skin or in the nose and can sometimes cause infections.

Your Child May Be More Likely To Get MRSA if They:

• Take antibiotics for a long time.
• Stay in the hospital for many days.
• Have a weak immune system.
• Have a tube in a vein (IV) or a tube in the bladder for a long time.

Why Is the MRSA Screening Test Done?

The care team follows advice from CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) to check for this type of germ. The results help the team know how to care for your child, because this can affect their illness and how long they need to stay in the hospital.

How Will You Know if Your Child Has MRSA?

The screening test is done by gently wiping a swab inside your child’s nose. Sometimes a second swab is taken from another body area. There is no cost for this test. The results will be in your child’s medical record and MyChart. If you want to know the results, you can always ask your child’s nurse too.

What Does It Mean if the MRSA Screening Test Is Positive?

Some children have MRSA on their skin, in their nose, or in their urine but are not sick. This is called colonization. If MRSA is found, but your child has no signs of infection, they usually do not need treatment. If treatment is needed, the care team will explain the plan and answer your questions. Your child will need isolation precautions to help stop MRSA from spreading to others. This means staff will wear gowns and gloves when caring for your child. If you have questions or concerns, you can talk with your child’s care team at any time.

How Can You Prevent the Spread of MRSA?

Good handwashing and simple cleaning can make it much easier to stop MRSA from spreading to others. Wash your hands with soap and water:

• After changing a diaper.
• Before preparing food.
• Before entering and after leaving your child’s room.