MRSA infections, commonly known as staph infections, are a growing problem in veterinary medicine. MRSA is primarily a human health issue, but animals are also at risk. When a person in the household suffers from recurring infections, screening of the entire household, including pets, is advised.
The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) released some tips for pet guardians who are treating their pets at home. (Of course if you notice your pet is ill, you should always take him/her to the vet first):
* Wear disposable gloves when treating open wounds and changing bandages.
* Use a household disinfectant or chlorine bleach solution to clean and wipe any hard surfaces contaminated by wound drainage.
* Avoid touching the nose, eyes, face, and mouth when caring for an animal or cleaning surrounding areas.
* Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
* Wash animal bedding in hot water and laundry detergent, and dry in a hot dryer.
Preventing transmission is the best course of action to reduce infection rates, doctors say.
For more information about MRSA, visit this site.
You can find the original article here.
