The above video overview of MRSA features Dr. Karen Tait, Sacramento County's former Deputy Health Officer, who now heads the Public Health Department in Lake County.

What is MRSA?

MRSA, or “Methicillin-Resistant Staph aureus," is periodically in the news. Media attention might lead you to think that it's something new, but the infection has actually been around for many years. However, it is becoming more common. 

You have probably already heard of Staph. It's a germ that lives on human skin. When it gets under the skin it can cause infections such as abscesses, boils, and pimples that people often think are due to spider bites.

Sometimes it can cause more serious infections such as pneumonia, sinus infections, urinary tract infections and other wound infections.

Due to the overuse of antibiotics, many different germs are becoming resistant to antibiotics. MRSA stands for “Methicillin-Resistant Staph aureus.“ (Note that MRSA is NOT the “flesh-eating bacteria” you may have heard about!)

The best way to keep from acquiring a Staph infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid skin-to-skin contact with open wounds.

We have a fact sheet available for you on this page, as well as links to other helpful resources.