Factors affecting spread of community-acquired MRSA:
(1) poor hygiene
(2) recent or frequent exposure to antibiotics
(3) direct contact with someone with a skin or soft tissue infection
(4) crowded living conditions
(5) contact with a contaminated surface (such as a sauna)
(6) sharing towels or clothing
Steps to reduce exposure and spread:
(1) Maintain a high level of personal hygiene, especially frequent handwashing.
(2) Minimize exposure to antibiotics.
(3) Avoid direct contact with anyone with a skin or soft tissue infection.
(4) Wash clothing and other laundry frequently.
(5) Do not share clothing or personal hygiene items with anyone else.
(6) Increase environmental cleaning when living conditions become crowded.
(7) Clean surfaces that come in contact with skin frequently with bleach or other antibacterial agent.
(8) Cover cuts, scrapes or other breaks in the skin.
(9) Promptly treat any skin or soft tissue infection and keep the area covered.
(10) Place a barrier between skin and shared equipment in a gym.
