RESEARCH: More About MSRA Superbugs

In the spirit of multi-part articles this month…CA-MRSA, “the new bug in town,” is a strain of bacteria that spreads staph infection in nonhospital settings to people who are otherwise healthy.

CA-MRSA infections begin as a small, red bump often mistaken for a bug bite or pimple but then rapidly turns into a boil or abscess. It can cause bone, joint, and blood infections and pneumonia.

Best line of defense? GOOD handwashing (hot water, soap, vigorous sudsing, the whole nine yards) and careful observation of your skin. Also, use an immuno-stimulating oil like tea tree or Thieves.