Protecting yourself from MRSA

MRSA is passed on by human contact and is also airborne. Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of all infections. When you are in hospital you can help by:

• Use a bactericidal soap and shampoo for a few days before going into hospital.
  
  
• Clean your hands before meals and after using the toilet or commode.
  
  
• Encouraging your visitors to clean their hands before and after visiting you. If the hospital don't provide them, consider bringing your own alcohol or antibacterial wipes.
  
  
• Use a personal or room ioniser to rid the room of airborne bacteria. See how negative ionisation destroys Superbugs in this definitive report.
  
  
• Do not walk on the floor in bare feet.
  
  
• Ask the staff caring for you to clean their hands before examining you.
  
  
• Report dirty toilet or bathroom facilities or indeed bedding to a member of staff
  
  
• Try to avoid all unnecessary contact with other patients and do not share books, newspapers etc.

Only take antibiotics when necessary and always complete the full course of the treatment as instructed by your doctor.