MSSA, or methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, is a type of bacterial infection that can occur when these bacteria enter the body through cuts or wounds. They usually reside harmlessly on the skin and in the noses of some people. Once inside the body, MSSA can lead to infections, commonly referred to as staph infections, which can cause the skin to become red, swollen, and warm. If MSSA gets into the bloodstream, it has the potential to infect any part of the body, including bones and major organs.
Staph aureus infections come in two types: MSSA and MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). While MRSA is tough to treat due to its resistance to certain antibiotics, MSSA is more easily managed with the right medication.
This guide breaks down what you should know about MSSA, such as the types of infections it can cause, the symptoms, the causes, and how to treat and prevent it. MSSA infections can occur in various body parts, leading to different symptoms that range from mild to severe. Skin infections are the most common form and typically cause redness, swelling, and sometimes pain.
When the bacteria invade the bones, the condition is known as osteomyelitis, which can be quite painful. MSSA can also infect the heart’s inner lining, resulting in endocarditis, or the lungs, causing pneumonia. Eating food contaminated with MSSA can lead to food poisoning, characterized by symptoms appearing shortly after consumption. Mothers may experience mastitis when the infection affects the breasts.
About one in three people carry staph bacteria on their skin or in their noses. These bacteria can spread through direct contact, such as shaking hands, or by touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs, towels, or sports equipment. Often, people don’t experience issues unless the bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, which can lead to an MSSA infection. While most infections are skin-related, the bacteria can sometimes cause serious illnesses by entering the bloodstream.
MSSA infections can affect anyone, regardless of age, but certain factors might increase the risk. To diagnose an MSSA infection, healthcare providers will review symptoms and may conduct a skin culture test to identify the bacteria.
Treating MSSA involves using antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications. The specific treatment depends on where and how severe the infection is. Skin infections might be treated with topical antibiotics or oral medication, while more serious infections might require intravenous antibiotics. It’s crucial to complete the antibiotic treatment as prescribed to ensure effectiveness and prevent reinfection.
Infections involving bones may necessitate surgery to remove infected tissue, and in certain cases, removing medical devices might be necessary. Preventative measures, such as regular hand washing and covering wounds, can help reduce the risk of MSSA infections and spreading them to others.
If untreated, MSSA can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. It’s essential to seek medical attention if you suspect an MSSA infection. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, recovery is likely without significant complications.
MSSA is highly contagious, spreading easily through direct contact or by sharing items like towels or bedding. Despite this, those with MSSA generally do not need to quarantine. Avoiding sharing personal items and practicing good hygiene can help reduce the spread.
Getting an MSSA infection once does not mean you won’t get it again; recurrence is possible if an infection is not fully treated or you’re exposed to the bacteria again. Completing your antibiotic course and maintaining hygiene practices significantly lessen the chances of reinfection.
To summarize, MSSA is a bacterial infection treatable with certain antibiotics, unlike the more resistant MRSA.
