Wednesday, October 24, 2007

We Learn About MRSA

By David C. Brown



I instruct an introductory class in teaching all-levels physical education. This class is for college graduates trying to attain teaching certification in the state of Texas. During our class, one of the fellows who all ready is coaching and teaching in Louisiana, told the class about a knee injury his son had received during football. The knee was swollen and included pain to the touch. The coach continued to explain his plans to take him to the orthopedic doctor the next day. Coach's son is an outstanding athlete with collegiate playing aspirations, so Coach was understandably worried over the injury.

The other classmates and I expressed our concern and verbally stated we hoped the injury would not be serious and require surgery. I did not hear from Coach until the next week at class. We were anxious to learn about the coach's son's knee injury. We were shocked as Coach unfolded the story of what had happened to his son the very night of our last class!

When Coach had returned home, his son was running fever and was in a lot of pain. His knee was terribly swollen! Coach and his wife rushed their son to the emergency room at the local hospital. What we heard next was awful, but intensely interesting.

Coach's son did not have a torn ligament in his knee! He had contracted a MRSA infection! The official name of this infection is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and is caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria often called "staph" infection. It is one of the first germs to out smart all but the most powerful drugs. This MRSA infection can kill you. This is extremely serious!

The boy received the proper treatment and was told he should recover completely if he took proper care of this infection. The infection had localized in his knee and had caused signs which appeared as an actual knee injury. This is what happens with MRSA.

MRSA can quickly burrow into the body and can give live threatening infections in bones, joints, blood stream, surgical wounds, and heart and valves. The areas infected may look like a spider bite, a pimple or boil. Deadly, is it not?


You should know some warning signs of MRSA. Athletes and coaches actively involved in sports, from weight lifting to football, need to be aware of the risk factors.

When participating in contact sports, the bacteria can spread mercurially through cuts, abrasions and contact with other athletes' skin. Sharing such items as uniforms, razors, towels and other equipment has allowed the bacteria to spread. Unsanitary gym conditions are also a breeding ground for the bacteria Keep locker rooms, equipment and showers disinfected! Please Sanitize, Sanitize, Sanitize!

Thank you Coach for your openness and information about your son's MRSA infection. More players on the team have now been diagnosed with MRSA. If coaches are not vigilant, MRSA can infect an entire team. Use preventive measures by finding out the best ways to prevent MRSA and then taking the necessary action to prevent a breakout of this dangerous infection.
In my class, we are also fortunate to have a certified athletic trainer. During our MRSA discussion, she did a thorough job of teaching us about MRSA and what to do to prevent the bacteria from rampaging through a locker room as well as what to do if an athlete is already infected. Thanks for the help!


David C. Brown holds a Master of Education from Texas A@M University in College Station, Texas and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Midwestern State in Wichita Falls, Texas. You may read David's blogs at http://www.sportsjock.mobi and http://musclebuilding-supplements.com


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_C._Brown
http://EzineArticles.com/?We-Learn-About-MRSA&id=732860

What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger: The Overuse of Antibiotics

By Christina Jones



MRSA is an acronym for Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. But what does this mean? When you break it down, you can see. Starting from the second half of the name, Staphylococcus aureus (or S. aureus) is the scientific name (Genus, species) for a spherical shaped bacteria that is prevalent everywhere, on everyone's body. There is an extremely good article at the Textbook of Bacteriology website that explains the biological characteristics of the bacteria. Methicillin is "a semi synthetic penicillin-related antibiotic, also known as Staphcillin, that once was effective against staphylococci (staph) resistant to penicillin because they produce the enzyme penicillinase (quoted from MedicineNet.com)." Resistant means "Having the capacity to withstand: immune, impervious, insusceptible, proof, resistive, unsusceptible (quoted from Answers.com)." MedicineNet.com goes on to explain Methicillin Resistance: "Rarely used now, Methicillin has been largely superseded by Vancomycin. Over the past 50 years, staph bacteria have become resistant to various antibiotics, including the commonly used penicillin-related antibiotics, including Methicillin. These resistant bacteria are called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA."


Ok, so what does all of this technical terminology really mean? Antibiotic resistance of any sort boils down to the old saying, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." I had it explained to me by my Aunt Sharon, who has been an RN nearly her whole life, when my husband was sick. When you clean your house, and you use antibacterial products, Lysol, for instance, there is inevitably some bacteria left behind. For instance, if you are wiping down your kitchen, it is impossible to keep every single bacteria on your dishcloth, and off of your countertop. When you are finished, and the kitchen looks clean, you have left behind some bacteria, in the little swipe of water that is left on the countertop, or the side of the cabinet that you touched the dishcloth with as you were taking the cloth back to the sink, or the bacteria that you just pushed to the back of the counter, but did not remove. Of that bacteria, some are bound to have survived the Lysol. Maybe you missed a spot, or maybe the bacteria were just lightly touched by the Lysol. This bacteria is now microscopically laughing at you, saying "Ha ha! You missed me!" This bacteria is now a little tougher, because it survived Lysol, and maybe the next night, when you clean your kitchen again, the same thing happens, except maybe you got him good with the Lysol, and he still survived it. This bacteria can now be considered Lysol-resistant.


Take that example and think about it. Think about washing your hands and body, using antibacterial soap. When you wash your hands after using the bathroom, you grab a quick squirt of antibacterial soap, haphazardly rub it on your hands, foam it up a little, rinse it off, and then you are finished. Most of us who have been through and are familiar with MRSA use a lot better technique than this now, but the rest of the world pretty much does it just like that. Can you imagine what happens to the bacteria on your hands now? You are left with bacteria that is resistant to your antibacterial soap. Oops. Then you go outside, see your neighbor, and shake hands with him. Oops again, now your neighbor has been introduced to your antibacterial soap-resistant bacteria. My aunt told me that she has never used Lysol, or antibacterial soap in her house. We all cringe at the thought of that now, including me, but there is something very important in there somewhere.


Back when our parents were children, somehow they survived without antibacterial soaps. Our world is full of antibacterial-everything now. Plastic toys are made with antibacterials, and even the grocery stores now have antibacterial wipes when you walk in to get a shopping cart so you can wipe down any bacteria on them. This sounds like a great preventative idea, but can you see where the problems lie? I don't know where we go from here, really. When you look at this situation, it seems very bleak, it is a never-ending circle, a catch-22.


So this brings us to the bacteria inside of our bodies. We have all heard over and over, so much that we ourselves have become resistant to the advice: Take all of your antibiotics, until the bottle is gone, even if you are feeling better. I know I am guilty of not taking all of my antibiotics in the past. Are you? Probably. I don't do it anymore though. Using the kitchen example above, you can see what an incomplete course of antibiotics do to the bacteria in your body. What doesn't kill them, makes them stronger.


Another huge problem in creating antibiotic resistance is with people going to the doctor with a virus, and insisting upon a round of antibiotics. Antibiotics are not going to kill a virus. They never have, and they never will. A virus is a completely different organism than a bacterium. Antibiotics kill bacteria, not virii. A virus can make you very sick, but it must run its course, and then it will leave. Occasionally a virus can cause a secondary bacterial infection, such as an ear infection or a sinus infection, and it is at that point, when your doctor has determined that you have a bacterial infection, that antibiotics are required. I know that when you are sick, or your children are sick, that you have the need to do what you can do to help make yourself or your children better. But please, listen to your doctor, and do not insist that they give you antibiotics. Trust your doctors advice, for the health and well-being of your whole community. And doctors, please, do not let your patients bully you into giving them an antibiotic when you know they do not have a bacterial infection. This is wrong, and only you can stop this from happening.


Christina Jones maintains the web sites and community at http://www.mrsaresources.com/ and http://www.superbugwiki.com/ for education and support of MRSA (Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus) patients and provides resources to the community to raise awareness.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christina_Jones
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Doesnt-Kill-You-Makes-You-Stronger:-The-Overuse-of-Antibiotics&id=116643

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Treatment of Acute and Chronical Bacterial Prostatitis Caused by Staphylococcus Epidermidis

27th August 2005
Author: Dan Pop

Staphylococcus epidermidis is normally resident in the skin flora, the gut and upper respiratory tract. It is a true opportunistic pathogen, normally requiring a major breach in the host's defence to establish infection.Previously considered solely as the laboratory contaminants and normal flora of skin in man, coagulase negative Staphylococci are now a major cause of nosocomial and opportunistic infections.

Adherence to a foreign surface is facilitated by the production of a viscous extracellular slime (proteoglycans). Staph. epidermidis is coagulase - negative (1).

Phagocytosis is the major host - defence mechanism for combatting staphylococcal infection. Antibodies are produced which neutralize toxins and promote opsonization. However, the bacterial capsule and protein A may interfere with phagocytosis. Biofilm formation and growth is also impervious to phagocytosis.

Infections acquired outside hospitals can usually be treated with penicillinase-resistant ߭lactams. Hospital acquired infection is often caused by antibiotic resistant strains and can only be treated with vancomycin.

Treatment of prostatitis is challenging in general, because many antimicrobial agents do not effectively diffuse into prostatic tissue. The relapsing nature of bacterial prostatitis is in part due to the ductal anatomy of the peripheral zone of the prostate. The anatomy of the ductal system prevents dependent drainage of secretions. Ductal fibrosis and prostatic calculi, if present, further inhibit the drainage of secretions.

E coli accounts for 80% of cases of chronic bacterial prostatitis. The other members of the Enterobacteriaceae family, Klebsiella species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus species also are known pathogens.

Chlamydia trachomatis has also been implicated as a cause of chronic bacterial prostatitis. However, we consider that this organism is unlikely to play a major role in the etiology of chronic bacterial prostatitis, being a pathogen confined to the urethra.

The role of the gram-positive organisms Staphylococcus epidermitis and Staphylococcus saprophyticus is still controversial and a matter of dispute. According to some authors these organisms typically may colonize the anterior urethra.

The mainstay for treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis is the use of oral antimicrobial agents. So far, the most effective medications for the treatment of chronic prostatitis were the fluoroquinolones and TMP-SMZ (trimethoprim-sulfomethoxazol). However these drugs are not effective against Staphylococcus Epidermidis. All other oral agents are unlikely to eradicate the pathogenic bacteria successfully within the prostate, because of suboptimal tissue penetration. Longer courses of antibiotic use are associated with better treatment outcomes. Relapse is not uncommon.

In an excellent article of Jukka Hyvarinen et al. (2), 570 Staphylococcus spp. isolates were tested for susceptibility to oxacillin and 19 other antimicrobial agents. Of the 238 Staphylococcus Epidermidis isolates, 58 % were identified as methicillin - resistant in vitro . Of the 332 Staphylococcus aureus isolates only 1 (0,3%) was phenotypically resistant to methicillin.The percentage (%) of Staphylococcus Epidermidis isolates resistant to the 20 tested antibiotics was : Oxacillin (58%) , Penicillin (82 %), Amoxicillin/ClavulanicAcid (34 %), Cephalothin (4 %),Cefuroxime (31%), Cefotaxime (20%), Imipenem (46%) , Gentamicin (46 %) , Tobramycin (57%) , Netilmicin (16 %), Ciprofloxacin(23 %), Ofloxacin (21%), Erythromycin (36%), Fusidic Acid ( 27% ) , Clindamycin (34 %), Cloramphenicol (19 %), Rifampin (4 %), Vancomycin ( 0 % ) , Co-trimoxazole(62%), Trimethoprim (53%) ; From this data we conclude that only vancomycin and to some extent rifampin and cephalothin are suitable for the treatment of bacterial prostatitis caused by Staphyloccocus epidermidis. However, rifampin cannot be used as monotherapy since microbial resistance to it seems to develop rapidly.

Vancomycin is recognized as one of the most potent antistaphylococcal drugs available. It is the drug-of-choice in the treatment of serious methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus infections. Vancomycin interferes with peptidoglycan biosynthesis in multiplying organisms and is bactericidal. It is also the preferred therapy for Clostridium difficile (antibiotic-associated) colitis. Vancomycin interferes with peptidoglycan biosynthesis in multiplying organisms and is bactericidal.

Vancomycin is supplied as the hydrochloride salt and isavailable in 500-mg ampuls. Vancomycin is usually administered intravenously or orally. I.V. vancomycin should be administered slowly (over 30--60 min) and in an adequate volume (100--250 ml) of 5% dextrose injection. Usual adult dose is 500 mg every six hours or 1 g every 12 hours. Vancomycin is almost completely eliminated through the kidneys. Mean vancomycin concentrations in the presence of inflamed meninges, pleural fluid, pericardial fluid, ascitic fluid, synovial fluid, and bile are approximately 15% of the serum concentrations, and this value may be probably recorded also in the prostate.
The various treatments of bacterial prostatitis caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis , which we consider a true pathogen , when found in the prostate or in the seminal fluid , are presented below:

Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus Epidermidis strains should be treated with (3) :

1. oxacillin/nafcillin 1.5-3 gm IV 6h,
or
2. cefazolin 1-2 gm IV q 8h,
or
3. clindamicin 600 mg IV q 8h,

Methicillin resistance is equivalent to resistance to oxacillin and nafcillin, which are commonly used and extremely effective anti-staph drugs, in fact they are the drugs of choice.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Epidermidis (MRSE) strains (3) should be treated with vancomycin with or without rifampin.

The Standard treatment for Staphylococcus Epidermidis deep infection is (3) :

Vancomycin IV q 12 h +/- Rifampin 3- bid IV/PO +/- Gentamicin 3-5 mg/kg/d IV

Vancomycin + Methicillin-resistant (VRSE / MRSE) strains of Staphylococcus Epidermidis should be treated with (3) :

1. Linezolid (Zyvox) 600 mg IV/PO bid + Rifampin +/or Gentamicin
or with
2. Daptomycin IV 4 mg/kg/d + Rifampin +/or Gentamicin.
3. Quinupristin / Dalfopristin (Synercid)

The existence of mixed species biofilms of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus epidermidis have also been reported (4). Biofilms are notoriously difficult to eliminate and are a source of recalcitrant infections. The novel lipid formulation of amphotericin and the echinocandins (caspofungin, micafungin) have demonstrated unique antifungal activity against Candida biofilms (5).

In a Japanese laboratory and clinical study on 11 patients (6) , Sulbactam/cefoperazone (SBT/CPZ) exhibited 8 fold or more potent antimicrobial activity than cefoperazone against beta-lactamase producing E. coli and coagulase-negative staphylococci (Staphylococcus Epidermidis).

Staphylococcus saprophyticus has also been shown to be an important pathogen in prostatic infections (7). Thirty-five isolates from 27 patients with staphylococci in the prostatic fluid of men with bacterial prostatitis were evaluated for the presence of S. saprophyticus. Three patients (11 per cent) with this organism were identified by novobiocin resistance (disk diffusion test), absence of hemolysis, and coagulase. These patients tended to be younger, more symptomatic, and more responsive to appropriate antibiotic therapy than those with staphylococcus epidermidis.

So far a vaccine against Staphylococcus Aureus has been developed by Nabi Biopharmaceuticals (8) for patients who are at high risk of S. aureus infections and who are able to respond to a vaccine by producing their own antibodies. StaphVAX? (Staphylococcus aureus Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine) is an investigational polysaccharide conjugate vaccine that presents a novel approach to the prevention of S. aureus infections. StaphVAX is intended to stimulate a patient's immune system to produce antibodies to S. aureus that provide active, long-term protection from the bacteria. StaphVAX targets S. aureus types 5 and 8, which are responsible for approximately 85 percent of S. aureus infections.

Altastaph? [Staphylococcus aureus Immune Globulin Intravenous (Human)] is an investigational human antibody-based product containing high levels of antibodies to capsular polysaccharides (protective outer sugar coatings on S. aureus bacteria) from S. aureus types 5 and 8, which together account for approximately 85 percent of all S. aureus infections. These antibodies are the same antibodies that are developed in patients who are vaccinated with StaphVAX?), Nabi Biopharmaceuticals' investigational vaccine to prevent S. aureus infections, and, indeed, Altastaph is produced by vaccinating healthy volunteers with StaphVAX, and then harvest the anti-staphylococcus antibodies.

Nabi Biopharmaceuticals is focused on developing a broad portfolio of vaccines and antibody-based therapies that target Gram-positive bacteria, most notably S. aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Enterococcus. These bacteria are the leading causes of serious hospital-acquired infections.

EpiVAX? (Staphylococcus epidermidis Conjugate Vaccine) is an investigational vaccine in preclinical development for the prevention of S. epidermidis infections (8). EnteroVAX? (Enterococcus faecalis Conjugate Vaccine) is an investigational vaccine also in preclinical development for the prevention of enterococcal infections (8) . Both EpiVAX and EnteroVAX have been shown to induce antibodies that are protective in animal models and facilitate elimination of bacteria by the same type of immune system response as StaphVAX (8).

EpiVAX? (Staphylococcus epidermidis Conjugate Vaccine) will probably be used both as a vaccine in order to prevent S. epidermidis infections, and as a potential therapeutic vaccine to be administrated before onset of antibiotherapy.

The objective of a recent article of John (9) was to determine the in vitro susceptibilities of a large series of speciated coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) against three new antibiotics, linezolid, quinupristin/dalfopristin and telithromycin. Resistance to linezolid was not observed in any isolates, although MIC90 values varied between species. Fifteen of 658 (2.3%) isolates were resistant to quinupristin/dalfopristin, but < 1% of the clinically most important isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Staphylococcus hominis demonstrated resistance to this agent. Telithromycin was the least active of the new agents tested, showing activity similar to that of clindamycin. Susceptibility and resistance to clindamycin were predictive of susceptibility and resistance to telithromycin. Resistance to clindamycin did not predict quinupristin/dalfopristin resistance.

Quinupristin/dalfopristin and linezolid show good activity against both mecA-positive and -negative CNS.

Quinupristin-dalfopristin(10) also appeared to be an efficient and safe antimicrobial drug for the rescue treatment of staphylococcal infections in critically ill patients. It may be considered as a treatment option in cases of vancomycin treatment failure. Patients received, intravenously, quinupristin-dalfopristin (Q-D) 7.5 mg/kg body weight 3 times daily. The duration of Q-D therapy averaged 11.8 days (range: 1-26 days)(10).

Conclusions : Prostatitis caused by Staphylococcus Epidermidis and/or by other coagulase - negative staphylococci should not be neglected or left untreated, since some potential treatments for this infection of the prostate exist and are available. Newly introduced or experimental drugs, such as streptogramins (quinupristin-dalfopristin), oxazolidinones (linezolid), carbapenems (LY 333328 i.e. Oritavancin )(11), everninomicins (SCH 27899) (12) , and glycylcyclines ( tigecycline i.e. GAR-936 )(11), could be useful for therapy of infections caused by multiresistant staphylococci in general and for the treatment of Staphylococcus Epidermidis caused prostatitis in particular.

References :

1. Staphylococcus Summary : http://www.life.umd.edu/classroom/bsci424/PathogenDescriptions/Staphylococcus.htm

2. Jukka Hyvarinen et al. , Multiresistance in Staphylococcus spp. blood isolates in Finland with special reference to the distribution of the mecA gene among the Staphylococcus Epidermidis isolates , APMIS , 103 : 885-891, 1995;

3. Antibiotic Guide , Johns Hopkins Point of Care, http://hopkins-abxguide.org/ , abxfeedback@hopkinsabxguide.org ;

4. Adam B, Baillie GS, Douglas LJ, Mixed species biofilms of Candida albicans and

Staphylococcus epidermidis , J. Med. Microbiol. , 2002 , 51: 344-9;

5. Mary Ann Jabra-Rizk , Fungal Biofilms and Drug Resistance, Emerging Infectious Diseases, Vol.10,No. 1, January 2004 ;

6. Suzuki K, Horiba M., Laboratory and clinical study of sulbactam/cefoperazone (SBT/CPZ) on bacterial prostatitis, Hinyokika Kiyo. 1991 Oct;37(10):1333-43.

7. Carson CC, McGraw VD, Zwadyk P , Bacterial prostatitis caused by Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Urology. 1982 Jun;19(6):576-8.

8. http://www.nabi.com/ , Nabi Biopharmaceuticals web-site, EpiVAX? (Staphylococcus epidermidis Conjugate Vaccine)

9. John MA, Pletch C, Hussain Z., In vitro activity of quinupristin/dalfopristin, linezolid, telithromycin and comparator antimicrobial agents against 13 species of coagulase-negative staphylococci. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2002 Dec;50(6):933-8.

10. Sander A, Beiderlinden M, Schmid EN, Peters J. Clinical experience with quinupristin-dalfopristin as rescue treatment of critically ill patients infected with methicillin-resistant staphylococci.Intensive Care Med. 2002 Aug;28(8):1157-60. Epub 2002 Jun 20. (andreas.sander@ejk.de)

11. Guay DR. Oritavancin and tigecycline: investigational antimicrobials for multidrug-resistant bacteria. Pharmacotherapy. 2004 Jan;24(1):58-68. (guayx001@tc.umn.edu)

12. Nakashio S, Iwasawa H, Dun FY, Kanemitsu K, Shimada J. Everninomicin, a new oligosaccharide antibiotic: its antimicrobial activity, post-antibiotic effect and synergistic bactericidal activity. Drugs Exp Clin Res. 1995;21(1):7-16.

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Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_6698_23.html

Friday, October 19, 2007

Raise superbug awareness, reduce subsequent compensation claims

by Katy Lassetter

When involved in an accident and admitted to A&E or booked into hospital to undergo a routine procedure, the last thing you expect is to face sustaining another personal injury or a fatal illness. We entrust our care to medical professionals, expect to be treated and certainly don't expect to have to be up against the NHS making a high-profile compensation claim. But considering the influx of viruses and superbugs in UK institutions over the past 25 years our safety could well be compromised.

First, we will go back to basics. A virus is a tiny organism that multiplies within cells and causes diseases which are immune to the affects of antibiotics. So what are superbugs? Well, the name superbug is reserved for diseases that have several genes that have become mutated and have also developed a resistance to antibiotics.

Both viruses and superbugs frequently become epidemics within institutions where there are large quantities of people in close proximity to one another, such as schools and hospitals.

Meningitis The bacteria that cause meningitis can lay dormant in the nose and throat and be fought off by our immune system. However, approximately 3,000 cases of meningitis are reported in the UK every year. Meningitis is caused by either a bacteria or a virus attacking the meninges, a layer of membrane surrounding the brain, which becomes inflamed.

Viral meningitis is more common but bacterial meningitis can be fatal. 10% of those diagnosed with bacterial meningitis will die and one in four will be left suffering from severe brain damage.

Children and young adults are particularly susceptible to meningitis and epidemics usually occur in schools and colleges. The disease is often passed between kissing contacts such as parents and children or boyfriends and girlfriends.

Babies with meningitis usually have pale faces, cold hands and feet, an arched back, an unusual cry and intolerance to being handled. Adult symptoms include suffering from a neck ache, headache, tiredness, intolerance to bright lights and a rash. Sometimes young people mistake these symptoms as being a hangover, flu or the a result of a personal injury such as whiplash and this can be a dangerous mistake to make.

What's being done to reduce risk of meningitis? Numerous meningitis campaigns have been introduced, including posters and leaflets, warning of the risks, signs and symptoms which can be seen displayed in universities and surgery waiting rooms. Work by the Meningitis Research Foundation also aims to raise both funds and public awareness for the disease. For more details please visit www.meningitis.org.

Free vaccinations against meningitis have been available for those attending establishments of further or higher education for more than five years and seem to be keeping the risk of mass outbreaks low. The Government has also announced a vaccination programme for babies which started in September 2006. This programme means that all babies beginning their routine vaccination programme at the age of two months will now also receive the pneumococcal jab from their GP.

MRSA The superbug that we most frequently hear reported about in the media is MRSA. Methycillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus as it is properly known can be found on the skin or in the noses of perfectly healthy people. However, it can become harmful when it infects wounds and cuts and is spread around the body through the bloodstream. This can cause damage to the bones and joints and eventually lead to organ failure.

MRSA can be spread by touching skin to skin and even be passed on through the air. This superbug is particularly common in hospitals and can also lead to holiday compensation claims after outbreaks on cruise ships and in hotels. More than 5,000 people die of hospital-acquired infections in the UK every year and 7,000 cases of MRSA were recorded in England and Wales during 2002.

It is thought that infection is mostly passed between staff and patients although the general cleanliness of hospitals has also come under scrutiny. Consultant microbiologist at UCLH, Dr Peter Wilson has commented, "If you have a dusty hospital, and most is made up of skin scale [dead skin] it [MRSA] will survive there for one or two months."

A recent compensation claim was made by Godfrey Anachunam Nkemdilim, the father of a 31-year-old woman from Norbury, Greater London, who died after contracting MRSA as an in-patient at a London hospital.

Personal injury solicitor, Rohan Pershad, revealed in court, "She had been admitted to King's College Hospital for a minor procedure and it was there that she contracted MRSA, which was not diagnosed when she was released in August 2001.

"Mr Nkemdilim's case is that, if she had been adequately treated, she would not have died because, although the bug would have developed, effective treatment would have ameliorated the condition."

Mr Justice Teare ruled that the case should be settled for a total of £45,000, some of which was to be used for Mr Nkemdilim's daughter's funeral expenses and the rest of which was to be awarded to be his 14-year-old granddaughter.

What's being done to reduce risk? There has been a crackdown on hospital hygiene since 2003. Doctors and nurses have been encouraged to wash their hands more regularly when going about their duties and they have also been asked to carry antiseptic wipes with them to avoid spreading infection. Visitors have been urged to wash their hands before entering onto hospital wards. In addition, medical staff have been asked to make sure that regular cleaning schedules are carried out and that wards maintain a high standard of cleanliness.

With any hope this should improve the chances of a safer stay at hospital and decrease the chances of subsequent compensation claims being made.

This article may be published on another website free of charge, on the condition that a link is provided from this article to our website: http://www.the-claim-solicitors.co.uk

About the Author
Online personal injury compensation claim specialists, with a 97% claim success rate. Call 0800 197 32 32 or visit http://www.the-claim-solicitors.co.uk for more details.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

by Mike Singh

What is this Condition?



Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a severe skin disorder in which the skin develops a scalded appearance marked by redness, peeling, and necrosis (tissue cell death). This condition is most common in infants ages 1 to 3 months but may develop in children. It's uncommon in adults.

SSSS progresses in a consistent pattern, but most people recover fully. Mortality is 2% to 3%, with death usually resulting from complications of fluid and electrolyte loss, severe infection, and involvement of other body systems.

What Causes it?


The organism that causes SSSS is called Group II Staphylococcus aureus. Factors that may increase a person's risk of developing the disorder include impaired immunity and kidney function. Both risk factors are present to some extent in normal newborns because their immune system and kidneys are not fully developed.

What are its Symptoms?


An upper respiratory infection, possibly accompanied by itchy conjunctivitis, may precede development of SSSS. Skin changes pass through three stages:

* Erythema: Redness becomes visible, usually around the mouth and other orifices, and may spread in widening circles over the entire body surface. The skin becomes tender; Nikolsky's sign (sloughing of the skin when friction is applied) may appear.

* Exfoliation (24 to 48 hours later): In the more common, localized form of this disease, superficial erosions and minimal crusting occur, generally around orifices, and may spread to exposed skin areas. In the more severe forms, large, flaccid, fluid-filled blisters erupt and may spread over extensive areas of the body. These blisters eventually rupture, revealing sections of denuded skin.

* Desquamation: In this final stage, affected areas dry up and powdery scales form. Normal skin replaces these scales in 5 to 7 days.

How is it Diagnosed?


To diagnose SSSS, the doctor must carefully observe the disorder's three-stage progression. Microscopic examination of peeled skin may help to distinguish SSSS from other disorders. Isolation of the causative organism in cultures of skin lesions confirms the diagnosis.

How is it Treated?


Treatment includes systemic antibiotics - usually penicillinase­resistant penicillin - to treat the underlying infection as well as measures to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. Complications are rare and residual scars are unlikely.

About the Author
By Mike Singh . For more great info on health diseases and ailments, visit http://www.health-diseases.org .

Fungal Skin Infection

Benefits of Mangosteen

Cellulitis,Definition ,Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Cellulitis- Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Definition

Cellulitis is a common inflammation of the connective tissue underlying the skin. It appears when bacteria occupy broken or normal skin, cuts, burns , insect bites , surgical wounds, or sites of endovenous catheter insertion and start to spread just beneath the skin or in the skin itself.This leads to an infection and inflammation of the cells, erythema, edema, and warmth.



Cellulitis can occur on any part of your body but lower legs or skin on the face are most commonly affected by this infection .Staphylococcus ("staph") is the main bacteria which causes cellulitis. Occasionally, some other bacteria may cause cellulitis as well.


As a spreading infection cellulitis generally
starts as a small region of tenderness, swelling, and skin redness . As this red region starts to increase, the person may result a fever, sometimes with chills and sweats, and swollen glands near the area of infected skin.

Causes

Cellulitis may be caused by many different bacteria but streptococcus and staphylococcus are the most common originator of these bacteria, which are normally exist on the skin but cause no actual infection until the skin is broken.So cellulitis is started by entering by way of a break in the skin. This break can't be visible by naked eye. Predisposing conditions for cellulitis include insect bite, animal bite, pruritic skin rash, recent surgery , athlete's foot , dry skin , eczema , burns & boils , though there is debate as to whether minor foot lesions contribute .Streptococci spread instantly in the skin because they produce enzymes that impede the ability of the tissue to confine the infection.


Pneumococcus may result a specifically malignant form of cellulitis, usually in an immunocompromised host, and frequently is combined with tissue necrosis, suppuration, and blood stream invasion.

There are some reported cases of cellulitis where it appears on areas of trauma, the broken skin, such as the skin near ulcers or surgical wounds. Also some wounds appearing after exposure to fresh water may be lead to Aeromonas hydrophila, a gram-negative rod.


Symptoms

Cellulitis can be occurred anywhere in the body but it most commonly develops on the legs.The main symptoms are skin redness or inflammation that spreads in size as the infection spreads , tight, glossy, stretched occurrence of the skin , tenderness of the area , skin injury or rash ,sudden onset ,warmth over the redskin,fever .there are some other signs of infection includes chills, shaking ,fatigue ,warm skin, sweating ,muscle aches ,myalgias.Some of the additional symptoms that may be related with this disease are nausea , vomiting & hair loss at the site of infection

In some advanced cases of cellulitis, red streaks may be seen moving up the affected area. The swelling can spread frequently. The infected skin gets hot and slightly swollen and may look slightly pockmarked , like an orange peel.The swelling appears due to the infection blocks the lymphatic vessels in the skin.


Treatments

Antibiotics are used to control infection, and analgesics may be needed to ebb pain. Commonly used oral antibiotics are penicillin , flucloxacillin, cefuroxime or erythromycin .Antibiotics taken are penicillin-based antibiotics (e.g. penicillin G or flucloxacillin) or cephalosporins (e.g. cefotaxime or cefazolin).

Clindamycin and vancomycin are efficacious antibiotics in patients with serious penicillin or cephalosporin allergy.

Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid may be used in the situations where a broader antibiotic cover is required, for example a diabetic patient with a foot ulcer .

It is recommend that person should wear long sleeves and pants in high risk areas e.g. gardening .Maintained proper hygiene& keep skin clean and well moisturized, with nails well tended, avoid having blood tests using from the affected limb , cure fungal infections of hands and feet early, keep swollen limbs elevated during rest periods to cure lymphatic circulation.


About Author


Steve Mathew is a writer, who writes many great articles on conditions, diseases and various other ailments. For more information on cellulitiss, visit http://www.health-diseases.org.



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Thursday, October 18, 2007

Bacterial Infections : More Than Just Skin Deep

22nd August 2007
Author: malo

They say that “beauty is skin deep”. Yet, the continuous growth in the cosmetic industry proves that an increasing number of people are really taking effort, time and money to invest on having healthy skin. While it used to be only women who are conscious of their looks, some men nowadays, particularly the younger generation and the so-called metrosexuals, have become advocates of male skin-care.
However, some people who are absorbed in their busy lifestyles have no more time left for indulging in skin care. Economy also plays a great part in deciding if people would refrain from getting skin care services advertised by media.
Those who do not give attention to skin care are often surprised to see skin blemishes and other imperfections. They see that their skin is no longer as supple as that of a baby and has become thinner and wrinkled with age. The feel of their skin is drier due to less oil production from the sebaceous glands and the decrease in the number of blood vessels has made the skin lackluster and without youthful glow.
Is this just a case of vanity? Or there is something more to skin-care than meets the eye?
Bacterial Skin Infections
Skin care, to be sure, is not just about beauty. It is about hygiene and safety. Unknown to many, all human beings, whether healthy or not, probably have some Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on their skin. These bacteria, simply called staph, are usually found in your nose or throat and may not really cause much problems except for minor skin infections. The skin serves as the body's first barrier against these bacterial infections. This is why it is important to have healthy skin in order to ward off bacterial infections. Once the skin is broken, cut or wounded, you are at risk for infection. Once these bacteria gets to burrow deeper into your skin and penetrates your body into the bloodstream, urinary tract, lungs, and heart, these seemingly harmless bacteria can become life-threatening.
History showed that most cases of fatal staph infections in the past have occurred in people who have been in the hospital or those who are suffering from chronic illness and faltering immune system. However, recent development proves that an increasing number of otherwise healthy people who have never been in a hospital are also acquiring these lethal staph infections.
Moreover, the usually powerful antibiotics are no longer as highly effective as it used to in fighting against certain strain of these destructive bacteria. Most staph infections are still manageable and can be successfully treated. But sooner or later, there will come a time that a new and deadlier strain of these bacterial infections will become resistant to most currently available medications.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of bacterial infections depends on the condition and affected area of the infection as well as the nature of illness if it is a direct infection from staph bacteria or from toxins produced by the bacteria.
They may range from mild skin infections to food poisoning, deadly pneumonia, surgical wound infections, and endocarditis which is a lethal inflammation of the heart valves. Most skin infections caused by staph infections include the following:
Boils – also called skin abscess, usually begins as a reddened, sore area which hardens over time. At the center of this abscess is a collection of white-blood cells, bacteria, and proteins known as “pus.” Boils are usually infected hair follicles and can be seen in areas of bttocks, armpits, neck, inner thighs where small hairs are irritated.
Cellulitis – is an infection involving the tissues below the surface of the skin which makes it inflamed and tender that may cause fever. It can affect any parts of the body but is commonly on the face and legs.
Impetigo – a superficial skin infection or rash that is most common in young children and infants but may also affect teens and adults. Affected skin areas are the face, hands and feet. These pimple-like blisters may not cause fever but is usually very itchy and may be spread to other parts of the body through scratching.
Scalded skin syndrome – is a severe blistering condition that affects newborn infants.
Follicilitis – is an infection of the hair follicles in the form of small white-headed pimples at the base of the hair strands usually occurs when people shave or have irritated skin from rubbing against certain clothing.
Hordeolum – also referred as stye, is a swelling near the edge of the eyelid as the glands at the base of the eyelash become obstructed. Stye is uncomfortable and can be painful.
Most skin problems would require clinical care by medical professionals but it helps to take note of the following tips:
Make sure to always clean and cover areas of skin that have been injured.
Do not share towels, sheets, clothing until the infection has been fully healed.
Do not touch to avoid spreading it to other parts of your body.
There are several practical ways to prevent infections from happening, thus, staying disease-free. Simple regular hand washing with soap and water before meals, after coughing and sneezing, after using the toilet can rid you of most germs. In the absence of soap and water, there are alcohol-based hand-sanitizing gels that are available for protection. Medicines such as anti-parasitic drugs can protect you from getting malaria while travelling. Over-the-counter drugs such as antibiotic creams can minimize infections due to minor cuts and injuries.
Always remember that cleanliness and good skin care hygiene is not just a form of vanity but it is a way of keeping your skin healthy and strong to be able to protect you in warding off bacterial infections as well as preventing many skin problems.

This article is free for republishing
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Prevention Is Key To Stopping Spread Of MRSA And Other Staph Infections

by Stacey Moore

An infection commonly mistaken as a spider bite, ingrown hair or pimple, and previously found almost exclusively in hospitals, is now becoming a problem in communities nationwide, spreading among teammates, students, family and friends.

A type of staph infection, it's commonly known as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), and it's growing at an alarming rate.

"MRSA germs are commonly carried on the skin of healthy people and spread either through direct physical contact or by contaminating other objects such as towels, clothes, sports equipment, whirlpools and saunas," says Carolyn Twomey, RN, vice president of clinical and technical affairs, Molnlycke Health Care US, LCC, "and can live on objects for days."

Skin areas infected with MRSA usually take on the appearance of spider bites, ingrown hairs or pimples, but can quickly develop into inflamed and painful boils or abscesses. In the most extreme cases, MRSA can cause bone infections or bacterial blood poisoning, which may result in amputations or even death.

An important key to the prevention of MRSA is keeping hands clean to avoid cross contamination. That means washing hands at least three times per day or whenever they are visibly soiled-always using an antimicrobial, antiseptic skin cleanser such as Hibiclens®, available from Molnlycke Health Care. Washing should not only include the hands, but should also involve the forearms above the elbow, before and after physical activity, where contamination is likely. And, if water is not readily accessible, alcohol rubs and antiseptics are a great way to supplement personal hygiene throughout the day.

Here are more tips to help prevent the spread of MRSA among the general population:
• Shower immediately after potentially contaminating activity, contact sports or using common gear or equipment. Wash in water as hot as you can safely tolerate and use an antimicrobial cleanser.

• Wash all clothes, uniforms, protective pads, towels, sheets and the like in hot water using a solution of 1:100 of household bleach to water. Make sure all fabrics completely dry, using the "hot" setting on the dryer.

• Disinfect gear, equipment, mats and other surfaces on a regular basis with a bleach or other antibacterial solution that is effective against MRSA.

• Refrain from sharing towels and toiletries. Use a clean towel after bathing, showering or swimming and be responsible for your own personal hygiene items, such as soap and razors.

• Keep wounds and lesions covered with clean, dry bandages until they heal. Regularly clean surface wounds with an antimicrobial cleanser and dispose of used bandages properly.


For more information, visit www.hibigeebies.com.
Keeping hands clean can protect you from a dangerous strain of staph infection that has become increasingly prevalent.


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Essential Oils and MRSA

by Kim Bloomer

Natural preventative pet care isn't a new thing but it certainly isn't fully mainstream yet. One of the challenges is being able to re-educate the public to think outside of the box. For so many years we've been told over and over again by traditional care providers that our pets need yearly vaccinations, prevention medicines for heartworm, fleas, and ticks, and feeding premium kibble. We've been told these will all lead to ultimate wellness in our pets. Nothing could be further from the truth.

While we continue to struggle with conquering the mountain of "alternative care is for new age, crystal toting, chanting hippies", our pets are getting sicker rather than healthier. One of the most challenging problems on the rise is super resistant bacteria that are increasingly resistant to the traditional use of antibiotics. Most notably is the rise of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). This is a staph infection that the antibiotic methicillin can no longer kill. MRSA is passed from humans to pets and it is still mutating into strains in different species animals. Horses have developed their own strain and antibiotics are not the answer! In fact, the overuse of antibiotics is part of the main reason that these bacteria have mutated and evolved.

This staph infection is deadly and can and does kill humans and animals. In fact, this very thing happened to Jill Moss' most beloved white Samoyed, Bella. Jill lost Bella to this staph infection less than a year ago. It prompted Jill to take serious action and bring the knowledge of this deadly strain of bacteria to the world so that other pet owners and people would not have to suffer the loss she has. Jill has instituted the Bella Moss Foundation (http://www.TheBellaMossFoundation.com and Pets-MRSA http://www.Pets-MRSA.com

to help bring not only knowledge about MRSA, but hope, help and healing.

Research has already begun on finding ways to stop these virulent bacteria. Scientists at the University of Manchester in England have found that three essential oils destroyed MRSA!Dr. Peter Warn, who was involved in the research, told the BBC (British Broadcasting Company) back in December of 2004 that when he tested the oils in the lab, "absolutely nothing grew. Rather than stimulating bacteria and fungi, the oils killed them off. "

A very resourceful and well known essential oil provider and manufacturer discovered that two of the essential oils used were Melaleuca alternafolia and geranium.

So why are essential oils proving so effective at killing even the most virulent bacteria such as MRSA? According to Jacqui Stringer, the Clinical Lead of Complementary Therapies at the Christie Hospital in Manchester, England which treats cancer patients, the reason that essential oils are so effective is because they are made up of a complex mixture of chemical compounds which super bugs such as MRSA find difficult to resist. I would add that because these compounds are naturally occurring and derived from plants–the "blood" of plants – no two oils are exactly alike ever, which is the perfect complex compound to combat a mutating super bug! Current treatments, according to Stringer, are made up of single compounds (like antibiotics) so the MRSA becomes resistant very quickly and leaving only 50% success in the
cases of MRSA. Think about that: only a 50/50 chance of survival. Those are not good odds. The hope comes with this new alternative approach to battling these superbugs.

Another added benefit of using essential oils to combat and help prevent(prevention is the goal in stopping MRSA) the spread of MRSA is the application: inhaled either directly or by diffusing them. MRSA is often carried inside the nose so inhaling the essential oils is all that is needed to prevent patients being at risk. This makes them very easy to administer to both humans and pets.

The biggest deterrent to progressing further in the research with the essential oils and combating these superbugs has been funding. In January 2005, the Manchester researchers were having problems obtaining the £30,000 needed for their research to continue. Shortly after finding out about this, Jimmy Savile the former host of the British television program 'Jim'll Fix It", has donated £40,000 for the research to continue! The problem with the funding was that since essential oils are naturally occurring as I stated above, drug companies are really not interested in helping this type of work because they can't profit from a product that is naturally occurring since they can't be patented.

This is really reprehensible since this kind of research could potentially help save thousands of lives and completely stamp out MRSA.

I for one am very excited to see more and more research being done in bringing healing and hope to many, using what God created for us to use in the first place
http://www.irishhealth.com/?level=4&id=6820



http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4116053.stm



http://www.innovations-report.de/html/berichte/medizin_gesundheit/bericht-38150.html



http://www.news-medical.net/?id=6975



http://nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=56962&n=dh357&c=GICenlwpeazyefa



http://tahilla.typepad.com/mrsawatch/mrsa_wounds_essential_oils/



http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com/news/news-ng.asp?n=56957-essential-oils-in



http://www.media52.net/archives/000199.html



http://www.courant.com/classified/custom/pets/petworld/hc-cl-pets-0608,0,3927853.story


About the Author:


Kim Bloomer is a natural pet care educator helping pet owners learn to care for their pets through natural, holistic means.Disease prevention is her goal to help pet owners lower their pet care costs and extend the lives of their pets. Visit her website Aspenbloom Pet Care & Supply and her dog's blogs barkin' about natural pet care from a canine perspective Bark 'N' Blog and A Dog's View

Look for Kim's dog Shadrach's new line of beautiful, custom made, hand-tooled leather collars, leashes and journals for large breed dogs and essential oils on her website.


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Cellulitis Skin Infection Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

by Franchis

Definition:

Cellulitis is an acute inflammation of the connective tissue of the skin, caused by infection with staphylococcus, streptococcus or other bacteria

Clinical Presentation

Cellulitis occurs as a tender, edematous, bright red plaque 5 to 20 cm in diameter. Generally, only a single lesion is present. A thin red line progressing proximally from the lesion (lymphangitis) is seen in about 20% of patients The initial lesion of cellulitis appears suddenly. Centrifugal growth of the lesion is rapid during the first 24 hours but occurs more slowly thereafter. Cellulitis is quite tender, but it is less painful than furunculosis, and fluctuant areas never develop. Fever, malaise, and regional lymphadenopathy may or may not be present.

Differentiation of cellulitis from an acute urticarial plaque such as occurs following bee stings is sometimes difficult, but the course of events over the succeeding 24 hours generally allows for appropriate identification.

The diagnosis of cellulitis is made on a clinical basis. It is theoretically possible to culture the lesion by way of injection, and subsequent aspiration, of sterile saline, but most clinicians do not find this helpful or necessary.

Course and Prognosis

Most instances of cellulitis resolve spontaneously over 10 to 20 days. Unfortunately, in debilitated or otherwise immunocompromised patients there may be progressive spread, and systemic infection may develop. The process is particularly troublesome when it occurs in patients taking systemic steroids, since not only is resistance reduced but the signs and symptoms of the infection may be greatly masked by the anti-inflammatory action of the steroids.

Special attention should be given to cellulitis of the central face, since, if it is left untreated, there is a significant risk of extension to the cavernous sinus.

Cellulitis is not usually recurrent. In patients with chronic lymphedema, however, there is a tendency both for the development of multiple lesions and for the occurrence of repeated episodes. The presence of hypesthesia, anesthesia, or blister formation (especially if the fluid is yellow or hemorrhagic) over an area of cellulitis should alert the clinician to the possible presence of underlying necrotizing jasciitis.

Pathogenesis

Cellulitis is a nonfollicular, mid to deep dermal infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcal pyogenes. Clinical signs indicating which of the two organisms is responsible are unreliable, but lymphangitis is more commonly found in staphylococcal infection. Fever, on the other hand, is more often seen in streptococcal infection. Trauma to the skin predisposes to the development of cellulitis, but occurrence ill the absence of trauma is common. Patients with chronic lymphedema seem particularly susceptible to the development of cellulitis.

Therapy

Systemic antibiotics, the treatment of furunculosis should be administered to all patients with cellulitis. It is not necessary to decide whether the problem is staphylococcal or streptococcal before initiating therapy, and in fact, culture is usually not possible even with saline injection and aspiration . Incision and irainage are never carried out. Hot packs or hot soaks are often recommended, but there is little evidence that this approach speeds resolution.

Treatment:

Cellulitis treatment may require hospitalization if it is severe enough to warrant intravenous antibiotics and close observation. At other times, treatment with oral antibiotics and close outpatient follow-up is enough. Treatment is focused on control of the infection and prevention of complications.


Read out Makeup tips. Also check out for wedding shoes and skin disorders


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Influenza Epidemic and Methicillin Resistant - Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

By Dr. W. John Martin, M.D., Ph.D.


Specialization among infectious disease experts has worked against an in depth understanding of the complexities of different pathogens working cooperatively to cause serious and even fatal human infections. The anticipated human epidemic of an avian derived strain of H5N1 influenza should be a wake up call to address this important question. Influenza can render the body particularly susceptible to certain types of bacteria that can thereby flourish; and could potentially become the driving force of a continuing worldwide pandemic. Prominent among these bacteria, are toxin producing Staphylococcus aureus, some of which can be resistant to various antibiotics, including methicillin.


Pioneering research during the 1918 influenza epidemic clearly identified a virus component as the initiating cause of illness. Yet there are ample indications that bacteria were responsible for "the gravity of the secondary pulmonary complications," and the "common causes of death." The idea of a mixed infection is contained in the oft quoted letter written by a military physician in 1919.


"Camp Devens is near Boston, and has about 50,000 men, or did have before this epidemic broke loose…. This epidemic started about four weeks ago, and has developed so rapidly that the camp is demoralized and all ordinary work is held up till it has passed….. These men start with what appears to be an ordinary attack of LaGrippe or Influenza, and when brought to the Hosp. they very rapidly develop the most viscous type of Pneumonia that has ever been seen. Two hours after admission they have the Mahogany spots over the cheek bones, and a few hours later you can begin to see the Cyanosis extending from their ears and spreading all over the face, until it is hard to distinguish the coloured men from the white. It is only a matter of a few hours then until death comes, and it is simply a struggle for air until they suffocate. It is horrible. One can stand it to see one, two or twenty men die, but to see these poor devils dropping like flies sort of gets on your nerves. We have been averaging about 100 deaths per day, and still keeping it up. There is no doubt in my mind that there is a new mixed infection here, but what I don't know."


Among the bacteria commonly cultured were Pneumococcus, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. While H1N1 influenza virus has been retrieved from victims of the 1918 epidemic, no formal study has been reported of possible toxin producing bacteria from this period.


The vast majority of bacteria are essentially harmless to mankind. Bacteria can, however, become infected with their own sets of viruses, some of which can transfer toxin producing capacities to otherwise relatively harmless bacteria. Bacteria viruses can also transfer the capacity of bacteria to resist certain types of antibiotics. The combination of toxin producing capacity with antibiotic resistance is now occurring, especially among Staphylococcus aureus. Of great concern is a toxin complex known as Panton-Valintine-Leucocidin or PVL. This toxin can easily incapacitate the host inflammatory response by directly killing white blood cells (leucocytes). The toxin can also destroy otherwise healthy tissues if the bacteria producing the toxin can gain entry into the tissues. The PVL toxin was originally detected in antibiotic susceptible bacteria.


Antibiotic resistance among bacteria is a consequence of genetic selection of the surviving bacteria in patients treated with various antibiotics. These resistance genes become commonplace especially if carried by bacteria infecting viruses. The emergence of these bacteria is mainly seen in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Indeed, a major risk factor from hospital admission is acquiring a multiple antibiotic resistant bacterial infection. The phenomenon is well documented among Staphylococcus aureus. Originally highly susceptible to penicillin type antibiotics (known as beta-lactams and commonly represented by the antibiotic methicillin), many hospital acquired Staphylococcus aureus are now methicillin resistant. In addition, they are resistant to many other types of antibiotics commonly used in the hospital setting. Examples of resistance to the toxic "antibiotic of last resort" (vancomycin) are now showing up in Staphylococcus aureus and other bacteria in certain hospitals.


The PVL toxin producing Staphylococcus aureus has started on the path of becoming antibiotic resistant. At present most community associated isolates are resistant to methicillin (CA-MRSA). In time, they will surely become resistant to a wider range of antibiotics by simply exchanging genetic information with hospital associated bacteria (HA-MRSA). The only barrier left to widespread severe infection, is the normally non-tissue invasive quality of Staphylococcus aureus. Influenza infection can provide such an opportunity by destroying the cells lining the air passages. Examples of fatal illness from a combination of regular influenza with CA-MRSA have been reported with little emphasis of a portend of what could occur in the face of an influenza epidemic and multiple antibiotic resistant, PVL toxin producing bacteria. Worse still, this is but one example of the enormous risks posed by pathogens teaming up in a biological warfare against mankind and his animals.


What should be done? Foremost is an all out attack on the emergence of toxin producing and/or multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria. Financial incentives exist for developing additional antibiotics to replace those for which resistance has developed. This approach should give way to a more common sense approach of preventing infection through decontaminating areas in which harmful bacteria reside.


A lack of awareness of decontamination strategies among Government and public health officials is apparent in their recommendations of simply using alcohol hand washing and short acting oxidizing agents such as bleach. Far more preferable is to use agents such as phenols and their derivatives that can retain antibacterial activity over many months. Surveillance for toxin producing and antibiotic resistant bacteria need to be in place in hospitals and settings where large numbers of individuals assemble. Examples include jails, schools, churches, sporting amenities, and workplaces where skin trauma is likely to be encountered. A comprehensive hygiene program, such as the one offered by Preventec inc., in Atlanta GA, should be instituted at such facilities and its effects monitored.


The benefits of this type of program may well extend to other types of infectious agents, including viruses and fungi. An additional complication of the 1918 influenza epidemic was the subsequent occurrence of neurological diseases, including a Parkinson-like syndrome known as encephalitis lethargica. Underappreciated research implicated a herpes-like virus in this illness. Swine flu vaccination triggered another set of neurological diseases, most prominently a Guillain Barre syndrome that are also consistent with a virus activation process. Viruses that are not effectively recognized by the immune system are prevalent within the community.


Termed stealth adapted viruses, they undoubtedly contribute to outbreaks of community acquired infectious illnesses with prominent neurological and/or psychiatric manifestations. Bacterial genes have been identified in cultures of stealth adapted viruses and atypical bacteria have been isolated from stealth adapted virus infected patients. The term viteria refers to viruses capable of breaching the genetic barrier between bacteria and human or animal cells.


They may well hasten the genetic intermixing between bacteria and also help facilitate the transmission of stealth adapted viruses back to humans. Hopefully, periodic cleansing of environments that pose a high risk of human infections with newly emerging viruses and bacteria will delay the emergence of devastating illnesses, such that mankind experienced with the 1918 pandemic. Additional information on this topic can be obtained by visiting www.s3support.com and www.progressiveuniversity.org


Dr. W. John Martin is considered by many of his peers to be the worlds foremost leading Pathologist, and research scientist in his field. He's coined the new term, "Enerceuticals," referencing the energy enhancing solutions for living cells.


Subscribe to the FREE "Rhino Charger" Newsletter to learn the latest scientific research regarding alternative energy medicine, new medical breakthroughs, health and medical solutions. The Rhino Charger is the FREE support Newsletter, for the "Progressive University, and the "Applied BioPhysics Foundation."


Dr. Martin is a Seminarist, published author, and a regular expert guest on Dana Dudley's "ASK MOM" live call in radio show. His new Progressive University, currently in pre-launch, is unique in providing new educational training and opportunities.


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MRSA: the Silent Killer - Are You at Risk?

By CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd


* MRSA represents Methicillan Resistant Staphylococcus Aureaus.


Most people have never heard of MRSA, but it is a very common germ, which belongs to the Staphylococcus aureus family. Totally harmless, this germ exists on the skin and in the nasal passages of about one-third of all people. Found mainly on broken skin, MRSA has the potential of becoming a life-threatening infection.


MRSA occurs most frequently among persons in healthcare facilities and hospitals. Furthermore, some patients are at higher risks for MRSA, such as: patients having prolonged hospital stays, patients enclosed in an ICU (intensive care unit) or burn unit, patients who've had recent surgery; and even those who've had minor hospital procedures such as urinary or intravenous catherization.


Purportedly, rough estimates of persons hospitalized each year for MRSA infections number as much as 100,000.


* Are you at risk for MRSA?


MRSA can be the key invader that causes abscesses; boils, pneumonia, bone infections, and can even contaminate cuts such as accidental wounds or surgical incisions made by catheters or other surgical procedures. Initially, MRSA is a local infection, but can rapidly introduce dangerous toxins into the body's blood causing blood poisoning.


* How is MRSA Prevented?


Because MRSA is most commonly spread through skin contact, it can be widely contained by adhering to simple hygienic practices. Using proper hand washing and sufficient staff training can almost nearly eliminate the possibility of patients contracting MRSA. In addition, avoiding physical contact with other people's wounds or contaminated wound material is helpful in preventing MRSA infection.


If you think you have a staph or MRSA infection, you should see your healthcare provider immediately. Delaying medical care can result in death.


As cited by the CDC, "MRSA is almost always spread by direct physical contact, and not through the air. Spread may also occur through indirect contact by touching objects (i.e., towels, sheets, wound dressings, clothes, workout areas, sports equipment) contaminated by the infected skin of a person with MRSA or staph bacteria."


According to a report by the NewScientis.com news service, "...In the Netherlands, where meticulous hygiene and isolation procedures were consciously adopted, the MRSA rates have fallen drastically and the Dutch now rate among the best in Europe."


* How is MRSA treated?


According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), "...MRSA are susceptible to several antibiotics." However, in recent times, certain strains of MRSA are resistant to often-used Vancomycin antibiotic.


In closing, MRSA is a preventable infection if good hygiene and isolation procedures are strictly observed. Having experienced MRSA first-hand with a close, family member, I have physically seen the life-threatening effects of this super-bug. On one hand, MRSA is a harmless germ, but on the other, it can render severe illness and even death. Speak to your healthcare providers about MRSA and ask what preventive measures are being taken to keep MRSA contained. The best way to prevent MRSA, is to be properly informed. Knowledge is key.


MRSA: the Silent Killer - Are You at Risk? © 2004 by C. Bailey-Lloyd


References:


1. CDC: [The Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA - cdc.gov/ncidod/hip/aresist/mrsafq.htm] MRSA - Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Fact Sheet


2. Health Protection Agency [London - hpa.org.uk] : Pamphlet - MRSA: Information for Patients (referred by Dr. Mark C. Enright, Senior Research Fellow, Royal Society University Research Fellow, (Univ. Biological Safety Officer), Dept. of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, United Kingdom]


3. New Scientist.com - Report: MRSA deaths up 15-fold in a decade, [newscientist.com/news/news.jsp?id=ns99994723]


C. Bailey-Lloyd is a professional writer of poetry books, poetry and informative articles on many subjects. More in-depth biographical information can be found at Somewhere Along the Beaten Path at MySpace.com.


NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Author Resource Box (above) is included, and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.


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MRSA and Essential Oils - their Role in the Fight Against MRSA?

MRSA and Essential Oils - their Role in the Fight Against MRSA?
By Dr Gillian Hale


Aromatherapy – the therapeutic use of essential oils (highly concentrated natural plant products) – has been used traditionally to help combat many disorders, ranging from mild skin complaints (e.g. insect bites, mild burns) to more complex conditions such hypertension as stress. Evidence for the efficacy of essential oils in these conditions has, however, tended to be largely anecdotal, but medical research is now beginning to show that some essential oils may indeed have properties that could be useful medically. Recent studies suggest that one area in which essential oils could possibly have a role is in the fight against MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).


MRSA - Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a bacterium that can be found as part of the normal flora of bacteria on some peoples skin and in their noses, where it seems to cause no major problems. However, if it gets inside the body, for instance under the skin or into the lungs, it can cause infections. Such infections are usually treated using antibiotics. MRSA, however, is a type of S. aureus that has become resistant to antibiotics, and can therefore give rise to infections that are much harder to treat.


MRSA appears to be spread mainly through direct, skin-to-skin contact, largely by healthcare workers failing to clean their hands effectively before and after contact with an MRSA-positive patient and/or the contaminated environment. Therefore, one of the priorities for preventing the spread of the organism is improved hygiene.





One study has shown that something as simple as hand-washing with an alcohol-based disinfectant among carers can effectively reduce the spread of MRSA.(1)



Those infected with MRSA can also take hygiene precautions to reduce their risk of spreading the infection, such as daily baths or showers with an antiseptic body wash, use of a disinfectant dusting powder after bathing and drying, and washing hair twice weekly with an antiseptic shampoo. As MRSA can live in the nose, nasal ointments containing the antibiotic, mupirocin, are also available. However, some strains of MRSA now appear to have developed resistance to this agent.





Despite improvements in hygiene, however, MRSA continues to pose a threat to patients in hospital and in the community (particularly those who are already ill, the elderly and those in long-term care), and new ways are constantly being sought to reduce the spread of MRSA.



A number of recent studies appear to suggest that certain essential oils may be effective in preventing the spread of the organism. In a recent report, researchers at the University of Manchester found that the use of three essential oils killed MRSA rapidly and effectively in the laboratory.(2) The oils were also effective against other infectious agents commonly found in hospitals, including E. coli (Escherichia coli). The researchers suggest that the oils could be blended into soaps, handwashes and shampoos, which could be used in hospital hygiene regimens to prevent the spread of such infections. Funding for further research is now being sought.





Although the essential oils identified in this study
(2) have not yet been named, other research has been published which identifies a number of essential oils that may be effective against MRSA.




Tea tree essential oil, in particular, appears a promising candidate, either alone or in combination with other essential oils. Two controlled studies have shown that use of tea tree oil in nasal ointments, body washes and creams was as effective as routine care in the elimination of MRSA.(3,4) In another study, combinations of patchouli, tea tree, geranium, lavender essential oils and grapefruit seed extract were found to be effective against MRSA,(5) and the same group of researchers have also developed a blend of essential oils, which includes tea tree oil, encased in a shell of dead yeast cells, which attacks and kills MRSA. Clinical trials of this new treatment, which can be included in wound dressings, are about to start on 40 burns patients who have been diagnosed as having MRSA on their skin.(6)





Lavender is another essential oil that has been shown to have efficacy against MRSA.
(7) Activity was also shown against another bacterium that is resistant to antibiotics – vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium.(7)




Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is a growing medical problem, fuelled by years of overuse and misuse of these agents by healthcare providers. Alternative interventions with proven efficacy that would enable the use of antibiotics to be reduced can only be regarded positively. These studies suggesting a role for essential oils in the fight against MRSA are still under investigation, but results to date are promising. Further developments are eagerly awaited.





References


  1. Pittet D et al. Effectiveness of a hospital-wide programme to improve compliance with hand hygiene. Infection Control Programme. Lancet 2000;356:1307-12.
  2. http://www.news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4116053.stm
  3. http://www.rirdc.gov.au/99comp/tto1.htm#UNC-7A
  4. Dryden MS et al. A randomized, controlled trial of tea tree topical preparations versus a standard topical regimen for the clearance of MRSA colonization. J Hospital Infect 2004;56:283-286.
  5. Edwards-Jones V et al. The effect of essential oils on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus using a dressing model. Burns 2004;30:772-7.
  6. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=3533
  7. Nelson RR. In-vitro activities of five plant essential oils against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium. J Antimicrob Chemother 1997;40:305-6.


Dr Gillian Hale writes about using aromatherapy in the workplace to relieve stress at work and other aromatherapy health related matters such as Essential oils and MRSA. For more information regarding stress at work, stress busting with essential oils visit:
Alternative Aromatherapy Stress Busting for natural aromatherapy stress relief


Gillian Hale is also the co-founder of aromatherapy-stress-relief.com a home based UK business providing hand made Aromatherapy Stress Relief Gifts.


copyright © 2006 Gillian Hale (CUS Busting Ltd)


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Gillian_Hale
http://EzineArticles.com/?MRSA-and-Essential-Oils---their-Role-in-the-Fight-Against-MRSA?&id=281507

MRSA - What Is It?

MRSA - What Is It?
By Michael Russell



What does MRSA mean? MRSA stands for methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or multiple resistance Staphylococcus aureus. You may sometimes see it referred to as Golden Staph or just plain 'Staph'. Staph is a microorganism commonly found on the body that occasionally causes infection. As a matter of fact, about 3 out of 10 people have MRSA bacteria living on their skin. Methicillin is an antibiotic that has been used to treat Staph. MRSA is a strain of Staph resistant to methicillin and some other antibiotics. It is therefore more difficult to treat than normal Staph.


How can it affect me? Staph normally lives on the surface of the body without causing any problems. It is only a problem when, in open wounds and ulcers, it can cause infection. For example, S. aureus bacteria may sometimes get into the bloodstream and travel to various internal organs and cause infections like chest infection (pneumonia), bone infection (osteomyelitis), blood toxicity (septicemia), heart valve infection (endocarditis), etc. Prevention of infection rests mainly on encouraging good hand washing practices amongst staff, visitors and patients.


Where on the body do Staphs live? Staphs normally live in the nose, arm pit and near the genital area (perineum).


Do all people carry Staph? Most people carry Staph at least occasionally. This has nothing to do with personal hygiene, but seems to be a special property of our skin cells. People who are already in the hospital, who are very ill or have open wounds, sores or ulcers are more prone to carrying Staph and subsequently develop an infection from it. Having said that, MRSA is becoming more prevalent in people outside hospital, but much less common than hospitalized people.


How do I know if I am carrying MRSA? Swabs can be taken from the areas where MRSA is usually found.


How do I know if I am infected with MRSA? Again, a sample of swab as well as blood, urine, body fluid can be collected and sent for the pathology lab to be tested. If Staph is detected, further tests are done to determine which antibiotic will effectively kill the bacteria.


If I am found to be carrying MRSA, is this dangerous and what can I do? Just having MRSA in your nose or on your skin is not dangerous. However, to stop it being transferred into wounds, it might be recommended that you have it treated.


Does the swab detect other infections or organisms? The swabs are processed in such a way that only Staphs, including MRSA, can grow. If you or your doctor think you have an infection, you may need additional tests specifically for this.


Can I get rid or MRSA if I am found to be carrying it? It may not be necessary, but if it is, topical treatments will be prescribed.


Can MRSA be treated if it causes an infection? MRSA is no more infectious than other strains of S. aureus bacteria. While MRSA is a resistant bug, we still have a number of antibiotics which are effective. If antibiotic treatment is required, your doctors will discuss this with you.


Can I get rid of MRSA by going out into the sun? Most organisms including MRSA live in areas of the body not normally exposed to the sun. If they are on the skin they live between tiny skin folds so are hidden from the sun.


Can I have visitors? Yes, you can! Staff will discuss with you and your visitors any special requirements needed. You and your visitors should wash your hands when leaving your room.



Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Medicine


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell
http://EzineArticles.com/?MRSA---What-Is-It?&id=225094

What is the Superbug?

What is the Superbug?
By Vernon Stent




The superbug is not a universally known term, but it is increasingly being used in many industrialized countries to represent MRSA or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.



As the name suggests, this is a bacterium that is resistant to the antibiotic methicilin. MRSA is a strain of Staphylococcus aureus that often is found on the skin or in the nose. It can often cause minor problems such as boils, abscesses or rashes. It can also cause serious illnesses such as endocarditis, pneumonia, septicemia and meningitis, especially in the very young, the very weak, the elderly and those who are pregnant.



There are also strains of Staphylococcus aureus that are resistant to the antibiotics erythromycin, tetracycline and vancomycin and the oxazolidinone Linezolid.



Another bacterium that is known as a superbug in many regions is Enterococcus faecium. It also can demonstrate resistance to the above antibiotics.



How did it Happen?



Occasionally these bacteria will produce a mutant. Normally such a mutant would either not survive or have no effect on the their evolution. Occasionally, a mutant will have an extraordinary characteristic that is beneficial (to it, and not to us unfortunately). This is good old-fashioned natural selection. One of those characteristics is resistance to specific antibiotics. The wide use of antibiotics, especially in industrialized economies, has led to many of the non-resistant strains being killed off, leaving the mutant resistant strains behind and allowing them to multiply.



What is the Answer?



1. We need to reduce the liberal use of antibiotics otherwise we will inevitably see more resistant bacteria. This is not a solution to the current problem, but a way to prevent (or at least curtail) the evolution of new superbugs.



2. A new method is to allow a controlled release of a virus – called a phage – that will attack bacteria. Phage therapy is still under development but may be a lifeline in the battle against the superbug.



3. We must improve hygiene so that the bacteria do not appear in the first place. This means we must wash our hands when we visit the washroom and use biocidal wet wipes where appropriate. Disease-carrying flies and wasps must be prevented from entering vulnerable locations such as kitchens, hospitals, kindergartens and rest homes using fly screens. If they do enter, they must be killed using fly killing machines.




Links to: Biocidal Wet Wipes,
a wide variety of fly screens and fly
killers



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vernon_Stent
http://EzineArticles.com/?What-is-the-Superbug?&id=28167

The Newest Threat To Athletes: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

By Bryan S. Bentz MS, ATC

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is quickly developing into a widespread threat to athletes in all sports as well as the general population. MRSA is a very serious infection that was once confined mostly to hospitals. The infection has recently crossed over to the general population, and is now infecting athletes of all sports and levels.

Bacterial infections in athletes are very common and can greatly hamper their ability to compete and perform at their best, but these infections are usually easily treated with antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin, and oxacillin. MRSA is a staphylococcal bacterial infection (commonly known as a staph infection) that has become resistant to many of these antibiotics that doctors commonly prescribe to treat bacterial infections. This creates a very serious problem for both the athlete and the doctors that provide their medical care. There are a few high-powered new antibiotics that currently exist to treat this infection, but if the bacterial strain mutates further and builds up resistance to these drugs too, doctor's treatment options will be further limited.

The spread and occurrences of MRSA in athletics is increasing. Prior to 2002, resistant staph infections were virtually unheard of in such a healthy population. Many of the first athletic cases were reported in football. Now football players from the high school level to the pros have had outbreaks. Many collegiate teams, including national championship caliber programs, have also had major problems controlling the spread of this infection. MRSA is usually spread by direct person-to-person contact. MRSA is commonly found on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Having the bacteria present in or on your body does not mean that you will develop infection, and many people live healthy lives without ever developing an infection. Sports such as football, wrestling, and soccer are among the highest risk to spread the infection due to the constant bumping, hitting, and contact with teammates and opponents. These sports generally also have exposed areas of skin and open wounds when practicing or competing that may come in close contact with other athletes. MRSA requires contact to be spread from person to person and is not spread through the air. However, it can be spread by direct contact with contaminated towels or equipment that athletes may share or use during workouts. Once an infection develops in an athlete it can quickly spread throughout a team and to opponents.

Many MRSA infections start as a small skin lesion or pimple, but the bacteria can also travel through the blood stream and settle into internal tissues, such as bone. Skin infections often occur in the area of a previous wound that allowed the bacteria to enter the body. Wounds such as turf burn abrasions, fingernail scratches, or even a small open blister or pimple could allow the infection to enter and manifest. When infected, the first symptoms may yield a small painful red swollen spider bite or boil looking skin lesion. If left untreated the infection will spread to surrounding tissues creating a pus filled abscess. Without treatment the infection then may advance and spread to the bloodstream making it harder to treat and control. Advanced infection symptoms may include shortness of breath, chills, and fever and ultimately could result in death if not properly treated.

Treatment for MRSA requires proper diagnosis. Any infection that does not heal in a timely matter, does not respond to antibiotic therapy, or that is draining pus or other fluid should have MRSA ruled out as a possibility. Diagnosis of MRSA requires a culture of the infected area. The culture is then sent to a lab that will determine if the infection is an antibiotic resistant strain such as MRSA. Many physicians also advocate a sterile incision into the wound to allow proper drainage of pus. The wound should then be covered and treated with special antibiotic ointments and observed during the healing process for worsening or spread to surrounding tissues. Wound dressings should be kept clean and dry and changed twice a day. Hospitalization may be required in some cases. Return to play should not be considered until the wound is healed of all infection and the athlete is no longer at risk of spreading the bacteria to teammates and opponents.

To prevent the spread of MRSA and staphylococcal infections among athletes follow these guidelines:



DO NOT:

Share shower towels

Share razors and equipment

Share deodorant

Share balms or ointments among teammates or friends

Share blankets or pillows at tournaments or on the bus

Lay on the floor of the locker room

Use community towels on the sidelines to be shared among athletes, including ice buckets and wet towels to cool athletes (use single use disposable towels instead or do not directly touch athletes)

Use whirlpools and other common use medical equipment when infected

Share beds with friends or teammates without changing the linens first

DO:

Clean equipment, weights, mats, and work-out machines after each individual use, not each session

Maintain a clean locker room, including showers, floors, and carpets

Occasionally wipe down and disinfect meeting rooms, desks, and common areas

Encourage showering and hair washing with hot water and antibacterial soaps and shampoos after every practice, competition, or workout

Frequently wash uniforms, practice gear (including pads and braces), and towels in hot water. Add bleach if you can without ruining your clothes

Avoid close direct contact with infected individuals

Finish all antibiotics prescribed to you by your doctor, unless your doctor tells you otherwise

Use gloves when handling, washing, or moving bloody or sweaty equipment, jerseys, or bandages. Throw away used bandages and bloody gauze in red biohazard bags

Train athletes, coaches, and medical staff to recognize potentially infected wounds and administer basic first aid treatment for wounds

Keep all wounds (even small abrasions, turf burns, or scratches) bandaged and covered with an antibiotic ointment when participating. If a wound can not be adequately covered consider excluding the athlete from participation

Report any skin abnormalities, lesions, or wounds to your doctor or certified athletic trainer

Place and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers in athletic facilities and in medical bags

Have medical staff and coaches wash with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, after contact with each patient/ athlete that is bleeding or very sweaty

MRSA is a serious problem that has crossed over from the hospital setting to the general population and athletics. Though it is a threat to athletes and the people they come in contact with, it can often be prevented. By being aware of the signs and symptoms of MRSA, using good hygiene, and carefully following the prevention steps listed above many MRSA cases can be avoided, allowing athletes to continue their training routines and to perform at their top level.

About the Author: Bryan S. Bentz MS, ATC is a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), who provides medical care and rehabilitation to collegiate level athletes on a daily basis and is also the CEO of orthopedic brace, sports medicine, and rehabilitation web store Hat Trick Sports (http://www.Hat-Trick-Sports.com). He has aided and provided sports specific therapy, health education, and medical care to athletes at all levels from the weekend warrior and aspiring youth athlete to collegiate, professional, and Olympic level athletes.



Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=38098&ca=Sports