Household Items May Be Reservoirs for MRSA

A recent study indicates that people infected with MRSA, who live in a home where common items test positive for the bacteria, are five times more likely to give the infection to members of their household. The findings were recently presented at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy.
 
A methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection results from a strain of the bacteria that is resistant to drugs commonly used to treat ordinary staph infections. The infection can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact and by touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria. This study suggests a high risk of contracting the infection by handling contaminated items.
 
MRSA can spread from the skin to the bloodstream, lungs, heart, bones, and joints, and the infection can sometimes prove fatal. By definition, MRSA is resistant to medication and is therefore more difficult to treat.
 
Due to the health risk, people living with individuals with a MRSA infection should recognize the threat that everyday objects, such as doorknobs, light switches, and phones, may pose. Unfortunately, using antimicrobial cleaning agents on these items may only encourage the resistance of the bacteria and make them stronger.
 
“In addition to testing healthcare centers, EMSL Analytical, Inc. offers quality MRSA testing services to individuals concerned about the danger in their homes,” states Joseph Frasca, Senior VP of EMSL. “If MRSA is suspected, tests should be done as soon as possible to minimize the risk to the carriers and those around them.”
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

For more information on EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior VP

EMSL Analytical Inc.

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com