Prevention:

Follow these steps to avoid MRS infections and prevent it from spreading:

• Keep your hands clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until they heal.
• Avoid contact with other people's wounds or bandages.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

Some simple steps for athletes include:

• Cover all wounds with a clean bandage, and avoid contact with soiled bandages from other people.
• Clean your hands before and after playing sports. Shower right after exercising and do not share soap or towels with other people.
• If you share sporting equipment, clean it first with antiseptic solution and then use clothing or a towel between your skin and the equipment.
• Avoid common whirlpools or saunas if another participant has an open sore. Always use clothing or a towel as a barrier.
• Avoid sharing splints, bandages, or braces.
• Make sure that shared bathing facilities are clean.

Wash your hands often, especially if you are visiting someone in a hospital or long-term care facility.

When visiting MRSA patients, follow the facility's visitor policies. Casual contact -- such as kissing, hugging, and touching--is usually okay. Avoid touching catheters or wound sites. Wash your hands before leaving an infected person's room.

Make sure all doctors, nurses, and other health care providers wash their hands before examining you.