This sounds like a virus from a sci-fi movie, but it's not: This is MRSA, or methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Once found primarily in hospitals, MRSA - known as a "superbug" - is becoming more common and affects people in everyday settings. And although MRSA may start out with skin-related symptoms like blisters or lesions, it can quickly spread to the bloodstream, heart, lungs and bones. MRSA is also potentially fatal. In fact, according to data from WebMD, there are more deaths from MRSA than AIDS.

What causes MRSA?

Many different kinds of bacteria are everywhere. Staphylococcus aureus (or "staph") bacteria live on our skin. Indeed, reports estimate that 30% of people carry staph bacteria. Generally, such bacteria are harmless and don't cause problems; however, if the bacteria enter the body through a skin opening, (like a cut, wound, or surgical incision), severe infection can result.

In addition, the infection can spread to others by touching an infected person or objects used by an infected person, such as clothing, towels, equipment, shower or bath surfaces, etc.

Certain groups of people are especially vulnerable to MRSA, including those with weakened immune systems, individuals who have been in a hospital or nursing home, the elderly, children and athletes.

Signs and Symptoms

MRSA typically starts off with skin-related symptoms, including pain, redness, rash, boils, blisters, or pimples that have blood and/or pus oozing out. As mentioned earlier, however, the infection can spread beyond the skin and affect the blood and vital organs. So, it's important to know that these symptoms go beyond "skin deep" and should be addressed by a doctor immediately.

Diagnosing and Treating MRSA

MRSA is diagnosed by swabbing the affected skin area. The sample then grows and develops at a lab, which checks for the presence of the MRSA bacteria. Infected skin boils, blisters and pimples may be surgically drained to release blood and pus and reduce inflammation.

This type of infection is very difficult to treat because with the passage of time and frequent antibiotic use, the germ mutates and becomes resistant to many antibiotics, particularly antibiotics like penicillin. Special drugs like Vancomycin, which is usually given intravenously, are available to treat MRSA. Yet, because MRSA bacteria mutates and changes, MRSA may someday become resistant against Vancomycin, and the drug will no longer be effective in treating the infection.

Prevention!

The good news is that you can take precautions to prevent this superbug.

• Good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and showering or bathing, is extremely important, say experts. For hands, try L'Occitane Olive Harvest Olive Daily Hand Wash, which cleans and softens the skin with olive oil. In the shower, try Pevonia Essential Oil Bath & Shower Gel, which cleans and detoxifies with special oils to keep skin soft. Another good choice is MD Skin Care Moisturizing Body Wash, which not only cleanses but also exfoliates skin while maintaining its moisture. This body wash also contains triclosan, a chemical that controls and decreases bacteria, which is advised as a means of inhibiting MRSA.
• Keep any open skin wounds, cuts or blisters clean and covered with a bandage to prevent bacteria from entering. This also prevents the spread of infection to others who may come in contact with you.
• Don't share personal items like linens, towels, soaps or other products because sharing spreads bacteria. If you use athletic or exercise equipment that was used by others, be sure it was properly sanitized and wiped down. Plus make sure to wash gym and sports uniforms after each time you wear them.

MRSA is a serious bacterial infection that can start with skin symptoms, but can spread to other parts of the body. With good hygiene and other precautions, MRSA can be prevented.