A bacteria that has become
resistant to the most common anti-biotics has begun to show up in the community at large. Hospital
workers know about drug-resistant
bacteria. Several strains have been identified in hospitals and health care facilities for several years. What is different about this new strain of a bacterial bug is that it has escaped the confines of large hospitals and found its way into the community at large.
This is not the bird flue or SARS or even the mysterious "flesh-eating bacteria." This is just as dangerous due to its highly communicable and deadly nature. Recently a 9-year old boy from Chicago scraped his left knee while out bike riding. The scrap turned into an
infection that spread throughout his body in a matter of days. He survived the infection but his lungs were attacked so fiercely that they were left riddled with holes. His is not the only case, there have been several in diverging parts of the country including California, Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, New York and Alaska.
This new bug named methicillin-resistant Staphlococ-cus aureus (MRSA) has epidemiologists struggling to explain how this particular bug manages to get around to so many cities and towns yet has left others relatively untouched. Adding to the problem is the fact that doctors rarely check for it. The germs are part of the usual microscopic world of humans outer and inner skin and can enter into the body through any break in the skin, no matter how small. When the body is unable to isolate the bacteria the infection spreads quickly and if not identified quickly and aggressively treated the person will die within a few days.
Presently there is no need to panic over the virulence of this bug. However, you should take precautions. Try to avoid cuts and scrapes by wearing protective clothing when involved in physical activities either recretionally or while working, such items as gloves, helmets, proper shoes and sturdy pants can guard against cuts and scrapes. If you do get a cut or scrape, even a supervicial breaking of the skin, you should clean the area thoroughlyusing soap and water and cover the wound with a clean, dry bandage. Avoid using hydrogen perioxide. Wash hands regularly and insist medical personal wash before examining you. Do not share towels or other linens.