Reference no: EM133651923
A virulent form of a common bacteria, the microorganism Staphylococcus aureus, or staph, has recently been found more frequently in health care settings. This variation of the bacteria has become resistant to one of the only antibiotics, methicillin, used to control infections caused by the microorganism. This staph has been named Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. MRSA has been transmitted within the community in the last few years, so CA, for Community Associated, has been added to the abbreviation.
The symptoms of CA-MRSA infection are small red bumps that look like a pimple or insect bite that can become abscesses. Occasionally a staph infection can penetrate the body and infect bones, joints, the blood, and even the heart valves. The organism frequently causes a life-threatening pneumonia in young children.
The risk factors for a CA-MRSA infection include youth, participation in contact sports, sharing towels and equipment, and crowded unsanitary living conditions. Persons with weakened immune systems are also especially at risk for infection.
The best way to prevent an infection is to wash your hands frequently, avoid the risk factors, and avoid the use of antibiotics for an infection unless they are absolutely necessary.
Questions
1. What has caused this microorganism to become resistant to methicillin?
2. What happens if this (or any microorganism) becomes resistant to all available antibiotics?