Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, more commonly referred to as MRSA, is a type of Staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics. It may cause skin infections that look like pimples or boils, or may even resemble a spider bite. MRSA is highly contagious and can spread quickly.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), factors that have been associated with the spread of MRSA skin infections include close skin-to-skin contact, openings in the skin such as cuts or abrasions, contaminated items and surfaces, crowded living conditions and poor hygiene. People may be more at risk in locations where these factors are common including athletic facilities and dormitories.

If you or someone you know might have MRSA, contact health services immediately at 717-872-3250 to be evaluated. To learn how to treat Staph infections or for tips on how to keep Staph infections from spreading, visit Millersville University’s Health Services website, http://www.millersville.edu/healthservices/.