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Originally published Sunday, November 16, 2008 at 12:00 AM

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What is MRSA?

MRSA — methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus — is an antibiotic-resistant form of the common staph germ. It survives on most any surface but thrives on moist areas of the skin. Over time, it has gained more resistance to antibiotics and developed strains tougher to treat.

How it's transmitted

It is spread by touch or contact. The pathogen enters the body through breaks in the skin, such as a cut or during surgery. Minor skin infections, such as blisters and boils, are the most common symptom. But the bacteria can develop into serious, even life-threatening, problems such as infections of the heart, blood and bones.

Where people get it

About 85 percent of people infected with MRSA get the germ at a hospital or other health-care facility. MRSA increasingly is spread in the community in such settings as playgrounds or locker rooms.

What you can do

Avoid sharing towels, razors and bar soap. Before having surgery, talk to your doctor about getting a MRSA test. Other preventive measures include washing hands and covering wounds with bandages.

Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company

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