MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus)

Union Hospital strives to meet the best quality of care and education through the prevention of infections in the Wabash Valley. As recently publicized, reports of community-acquired methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus, more commonly known as MRSA, has been a growing concern for many of you.

Union Hospital has joined with local and state health officials, and various community partners to provide Wabash Valley communities with the most current MRSA information and the necessary tools to promote handwashing, environmental cleaning, and healthy hygiene. Please take advantage of these resources and share with your schools, churches, daycares, etc. to help fight the "Super Bug" known as MRSA.

Information YOU need to know
MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) bacteria that has developed resistance to the antibiotic methicillin and other antibiotics. Staphylococcal infections, including MRSA, can occur among persons with weakened immune systems in healthcare facilities (such as hospitals, nursing homes and dialysis centers) and in otherwise healthy people who have not been hospitalized or had a medical procedure in the last year, known as community-associated (CA-MRSA).

CA-MRSA infections are usually skin infections, such as abscesses, boils, and other pus-filled lesions. Factors that have been associated with the spread of CA-MRSA skin infections include: close skin-to-skin contact, openings in the skin such as cuts or abrasions, contact with contaminated items and surfaces, crowded living conditions, and poor hygiene.

MRSA is not a new disease, nor is it specific to any location. Proper prevention at all times is extremely important. The following resource material includes information from the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other state health departments. This information may be helpful in reducing your risk.

Community facilities should prepare their own policies and procedures regarding the identification of possible staphylococcal infections, the referral of infected persons for healthcare, and the restriction of activities.

Antibiotic Resistance Facts and Resources
CA-MRSA Facts and Resources
CA-MRSA in Athletics
CA-MRSA in Childcare Centers
CA-MRSA in Correctional Facilities
Facts for Custodians
Hand washing Facts and Resources
MRSA in the Healthcare Setting
MRSA in Clinics/Offices
Facts for Medical Providers
MRSA in the Home
Facts for the Non-Hospital Healthcare Setting
CA-MRSA in Schools
Information for Veterinarians

Download the entire 8 page resource guide from the
Indiana State Department of Health. [96 kb pdf]

Other Downloads:
Antibiotics and Skin Infection [112k pdf]
Elementary Poster - "Wash Your Hands" [13.1 mb pdf ]
Elementary Powerpoint Slides "What to do About MRSA" [1 mb pdf]
Germ Buster Pamphlet [800k pdf]
Handwashing PSA Video [WMV format 2.6 mb]
How Should I Wash My Hands [4.5 mb pdf]
Living with MRSA [1.8mb pdf]
Protecting Against MRSA at Home [4.7 mb pdf]
Protecting Against MRSA in Child Care Centers [4.1 mb pdf]
Protecting Against MRSA in Elementary Schools [3.9 mb pdf]
Protecting Against MRSA in the Workplace [4.3mb pdf]
Protecting Against MRSA in Outpatient Clinics [1.2mb pdf ]
Protecting Against MRSA for Police and Sheriff Depts. [4.4mb pdf]
School Custodian Tips [64k pdf]
School Nurse Info [ 2.1mb pdf]
Skin Infection Care Poster [164 kb pdf]
Suds Up For Kids [104k pdf]
When to Wash for Kids [ 276k pdf]