What is MRSA? Symptoms and how to avoid deadly infection after rise in UK cases


There was a A sharp increase in cases superbac Sarm under contract outside hospitals across the United Kingdom.

The British were invited to avoid sharing items such as towels or razors, especially in gymnasiums and leisure centers where bacteria was widespread.

The figures show that 175 people have been infected with Sarm In the community between January and March of this year – an increase of 47% of the 119 cases recorded during the same period in 2019.

At the same time, Those who pass the contractual SCM were younger. Almost a quarter of cases of community appearance in 2023-2024 were recorded in people under the age of 45, compared to only one in 10 in 2007 to 2008.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it was “too early” to find out if this increase represents a lasting change, but he added that infection The rates are closely followed.

Here, The independent Take a look at what Sarm is, what the symptoms are, and how to be treated for this:

What is Sarm?

According to the NHSSarm (staphylococcus aureus resistant to meticillin) is a type of bacteria which generally lives without danger on the skin.

However, if he enters the body, this can cause a serious infection which requires immediate treatment with antibiotics.

Ukhsa explains that Staphylococcus aureus is commonly found on human skin and the mucous membrane (the wet and interior mucosa of certain organs and body cavities). In many cases, this does not cause any problems.

A sample of Sarm bacteria
A sample of Sarm bacteria (University of St Andrews / PA))

But when it enters the body, by broken skin or medical procedure, this can cause diseases ranging from infected eczema and abscesses to pneumonia, joint infections or blood infections.

Most S. Aureus strains can be processed with standard antibioticsTHE NHS Said, but the MRSA resists meticillin and often requires alternative drugs.

What are the symptoms of the SRM?

The NHS says that many people wear RCMs on their skin without showing themselves symptoms. Problems only arise if bacteria cause an infection.

  • According to the NHSsigns of a Sarm skin infection may include:
  • Painful and swollen skin patches
  • Heat in the affected area
  • Pus or fleeing liquid
  • Redness (although it can be more difficult to spot on brown or black skin)

If the STM spreads more deeply into the body, it can cause more serious symptoms such as:

  • High temperature
  • Chills
  • Dizzy or confusion
  • Breathing difficulties

How is Sarm treated?

The treatment of the SRM depends on the severity of the infection.

Light infections to STM can be managed with antibiotic tablets, says the NHS.

However, for more serious infections, hospital treatment may be necessary. This often involves antibiotics delivered by an injection or drip. Antibiotic courses can last from several days to several months, depending on the severity of the infection, according to the NHS.

In cases where abscesses or pus collections are formed, surgery may be necessary to drain the infected area.

How to avoid Sarm?

The NHS advises that people stay in hospitals or care houses Facing a higher risk of STM, especially if they undergo surgery.

Visitors are invited to follow strict hygiene instructions, in particular by washing or disinfecting their hands.

Propagation outside hospital and care can be reduced by daily hygiene measures:

  • Regular hand washing
  • Avoid sharing towels, razors or personal objects
  • Keep the cuts and injuries clean and covered

Before surgery, patients can be offered a MRSA screening test, indicates the NHS. This implies taking swings of nostrils, mouths or groin. If the STM is detected, a short course of antibacterial cream, shampoo and body washing is generally prescribed to erase bacteria before the procedure.

Who is most at risk?

The NHS says that the SRM can affect anyone, but some people face a higher risk, including those who:

  • Spend long periods in the hospital for serious conditions
  • Have wounds, surgical cuts, burns or drops inserted in the veins
  • Have weakened immune systems due to conditions such as HIV or treatments such as chemotherapy

UKHSA warns that if most of the infections can be processed, resistant strains such as MRSA have more challenges, rendering prevention and vital surveillance.



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