When you reach the GuestMap, simply click on the map at your location. A box will pop up with 2 fields, Name and Comments. You do not have to leave your real name, but both fields must have a minimum of 3 characters entered. You will then choose an icon, then click Place, which will place your icon on the map.
If you would like to leave your email address next to your name or in the comments section, feel free to do so. You will be added to the MRSA Resources mailing list, which is used ONLY for very OCCASIONAL emails regarding new site features. No spam, ever.
The comments area is not very long, but you can leave a short synopsis of your situation if you would like to, or just let us know whether you have community acquired or hospital acquired MRSA.
Moving to the international map gives us more areas to track MRSA patients, but less individual areas to put icons. If there is an icon where you need to place yours, you may either overlap the one that is there, or find an empty space (ocean space!) as near as you can. You can also let us know where you are located either next to your name, or in the comments section. If you click the Change View button at the top right side of the map, you will see a list of all of the icons placed along with the comments for each one.
109 responses so far ↓
Sherri // Jan 29, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Just diagnosed with MRSA after removing a large area of my inner thigh that was infected. I was lucky. Serious stuff!
Rhoda // Feb 7, 2007 at 11:35 pm
My daughter and almost all of her associates in Council Bluffs, Ia. have CA MRSA and are getting little care or information from ER’s, just prescriptions none of them can afford. I am fighting for all of them, two almost dead now.
Sherri // Feb 8, 2007 at 6:32 am
I am leaving my contact info for you, even on myspace, to try and connect with you. PLEASE get in touch. I will be gone this morning to see my surgeon for a re-check on my leg. I will be home at dinner time and all afternoon. I do day care for my 7 month old granddaughter and I am usually home. I will keep checking mail! I am a very compassionate and caring person and I will help you in any way I can. Sherri
Diane // Feb 22, 2007 at 10:56 am
My 13-year old son has been diagnosed with MRSA in both inner ears.
If anyone has dealt with MRSA otitis, will you please share information with me?
I would be especially interested in hearing from anyone with MRSA related to ear tubes, perforated ear drums, and/or infected mastoids.
I also am interested in hearing about any use of Zyvox in children, particularly for long-term (4-6 weeks) use.
Thank you in advance
Suzanne // Mar 6, 2007 at 10:05 am
My 21 year old “like a” son (lives with me) has this and keeps getting boils/sores. What are others doing for prevention, for other family members and for person with this? How contagious is this for others in the family? Thanks.
Rhoda // Mar 6, 2007 at 10:41 pm
My daughter who has had CA MRSA six months is now 1 month pregnant. Any info on pregnancy and CA MRSA apreciated.
Rhoda // Mar 6, 2007 at 10:50 pm
I’ve never tried so hard to speak
and found myself yet unheard
Look out or you’ll die!!
You’d think they’d stop at that word
Die. Dead. Deceased. Kaput.
With man’s fear of mortality,
he should think something afoot.
Surely someone alive besides me
Feels fear at these words of fatality.
CA MRSA
pronounced like
See a pursa,
is a deadly disease with several names
And I’d say it’s winning
If we’re playing games.
.
MRSA gets inside of you
from the person next to you
in a drop of sweat
or any spot wet
can carry it through
to You.
You don’t even need a cut
or to have sex or share needles,
The Super Bug is uglier
Than butt reaming beetles.
Awareness, containment,
and death to the BUG,
is the only way to vent
and beat this Thug.
But catch it and fearlessly scream
No segregation for you,
Cause no one yet cares,
and there’s nothing you can do.
Try to warn your neighbors,
And hear
that they’d rather hear
Thirty hours of ”news”
about a woman abused
in whose windows we peek,
We have to suck it up thus
Week after week,
While the Flesh Eating Bug,
Dines on those around us.
Bugs don’t scare you?
some are kinda cute,
but this one is ugly,
and painful to boot.
I know a woman
who has been cleanly scalped,
MRSA ate where hair once grew ~
It was brown the last I knew ~
Terrifying until it started on an ear,
I think that’s when
she really felt fear.
Most have it in their skin still
Covering their torsos,
With boils, bumps and scars,
covering every inch until
It starts on the organs inside,
then it’s really downhill
from dying to has died.
My daughter has this,
She is a junkie and poor,
And now she is pregnant,
And we really need more
People to know,
This is HERE,
NOW,
in our town,
I don’t feel safe,
Knowing it’s just floating around.
No one is quarantined,
Few are educated at all,
Some still blame spiders,
A germ just seems so very small.
Fact is, the AMA made this
And now turns their backs,
On those most desperately needing aid
from whichever side of the tracks,
Not nearly enough is done
neither offense or defense exists,
Who’s targeted? Why! Everyone!
I could tell you stories
from sun to sun..
I thought one lady had it made
Because she was lucky enough,
To have Medicaid
for meds and stuff
to get admitted for IV antibiotics,
and although a junkie,
they saw her pain
even giving my friend narcotics.
My friend
Noticed the following
As a regular thing;
The doctors and nurses
Masked up and changed gowns
Yet posted nothing about MRSA’s
Presence in our town.
Visitors came and went
With no warning of the risk they took,
home with them, maybe to you!
Perhaps he’s even your cook.
Her luck went south,
’twas her without the hair now
To you from my mouth,
I think it might be unfair how
Victims like her are treated so
Without even thinking she is going to go
to the store, the bathroom,
Restaurants and parks,
But certainly not to cause your doom!
You rush to the ER
And say, hey doc! look here!
He looks and backs up
then leans in to peer,
Backs up again quickly
and says, “Spider bite!
you’ll soon be out of here!”
He explains how it will drain,
and writes you a script
For Bactrum or something
That leaves you unequipped,
To fight the New Big Bertha,
Plague, Super Bug, Leprosy
CA MRSA
and maybe then you’ll see,
Part of what it’s like to be me,
To picture how it feels
To be eaten alive
by a flesh eating germ
Who’ll eat the Bactrum and thrive.
There are one or two
correct drugs out there,
But they have to be found quick!
you have to take great care,
not to die, not to let it win,
Before you’re too sick
And the disease moves within.
I fear for those who turn their backs,
Unless you find Karma queer
For they could fall fast and hard,
Maybe yet this year!
Until your family is like me
Praying for you
with all their might
and you all join in
and take up my fight!
because now you have to
with all your might.
Other countries have won
Locked MRSA out tight!
While our was has not begun
or even admitted
We have a war to be won.
Learn what you can
and share what you know
what we understand we command
so help our understanding grow.
And pray for help
sweating, writhing in contortions,
Aren’t we reminded
of plagues of Biblical proportions?
Are you afraid?
I hope you are,
’cause with you
and the friends I’ve made so far
We can get “their” attention
before we’re gone too far.
Other countries have won
The battle with this Beast
Let’s not find
We only did the very least
that we could have
forgive us, everyone!
For all the things we should have
already done.
MRSA Notes » MRSA Poetry // Mar 7, 2007 at 8:14 am
[…] A reader at MRSA Resources left this poem in the comments: […]
Debra // Apr 19, 2007 at 10:56 am
I lived with a partner who had MRSA. He would get the boils every time he had a tragedy, and couldn’t handle or express the emotions that naturally came up. I had to help him, UP CLOSE. We were intimate, of course. I never had an outbreak.
We broke up, I moved into town. Shared a house with a friend. Hygiene issues (his). He came down with boils. I TOLD him to go to dr, AND to tell dr about MRSA. After too long, he finally went… he actually did try to tell dr that he might have MRSA, and the dr didn’t listen, just gave him penicillen. He got pretty sick.
I moved out; six months later, in a nice, clean place, but in a very stressful time (grad school), I had my first out break. MY ELBOW!!! The elbow was just sore at first, then boom. I tried cutting it off and packing it with cayenne, no good. I tried dousing it with lavender oil and tea tree oil, no good, I got a fever. Made it to the dr in time, and was prescribed sulfa.
Now, almost six months later, I think I’m breaking out again, this time (ARGGH) on my vulva. This time, no money for doctor. I’m pretty upset and scared.
Rhoda // Apr 19, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Some might disagree with me but I think you likely became a carrier from boyfriend number one. The MRSA virus colonizes in the nose and you can carry it there without breaking out for a long time or forever. You must have had a good immune system to have gone so long without breaking out yourself. I would call the health department and/or the disease control center in your area and look for sliding fee or free help. Try everyone. In my area the Salvation Army will fill prescriptions for you at least once. I am sorry to say but you will likely run into a lot of ignorance of your condition out there as you experienced with your boyfriend prescribed penicillin. Good luck and best wishes to you. There is a lot of support and help at this site. Rhoda
Kristi // Apr 25, 2007 at 8:29 am
I wanted to repsond to Diane. I have a 15 month old who has been battling MRSA in his inner ears since Nov 2006. I don’t know anything about the drug Zyvox, but am considering asking the ENT about it tomorrow.
Diane // Apr 25, 2007 at 10:08 am
Zyvox is a powerful drug with some nasty side effects, but it keeps from having to do vancomycin.
My son took it for 2.5 weeks. I was told that most side effects start showing up after the first two weeks or so.
My son had no obvious side effects while on the Zyvox, but about two weeks after he discontinued it, he has a horrible yeast infection in his genital area.
We’re still watching the ears to see whether the MRSA returns. We don’t know whether we’ve eradicated it or just temporarily beaten it back.
I wish you well.
Kristi // Apr 26, 2007 at 7:11 am
Diane…when was your son diagnosed?? Was Zyvox the only drug he has been on? I’m asking because my son was on Bactrim for 17 weeks. Then on Clindamycin for 3 weeks. He was hospitalized last week and they put him on vancomycin; however, he had some bad side effects, so they switched him back to the IV form of Clindamycin. We have to give him an IV 3 times a day. Yesterday, his ears started oozing again, so thought I would mention this other drug to the ENT. Also, has anyone been able to explain to you how MRSA gets in the ears?
Thanks!!
Pam // May 7, 2007 at 9:43 pm
I have MRSA in both of my ears. The symptoms I have are severe itching, peeling, scales and oozing. I have been on bactrim and minicyline with no luck at keeping it away. I get better but within one month it returns, I would like to know what symptoms others have seen with MRSA in the ears.
Kristi // May 18, 2007 at 8:26 am
Pam,
The only signs I have seen with my son are the oozing. I assume there is some pain involved as he tends to cry out holding his ears. Has anyone been able to explain to you how the MRSA got in your ears. I just don’t understand it.
Kate // Jun 24, 2007 at 10:05 pm
I was diagnosed with CA-MRSA in April. Don’t know how I got it. Had four infections before they cultured the calf infection and figured it out. Swelling, fever, etc. I was hospitalized and they used Vancomyacin by IV, and then Zyvox (VERY expensive!!) when I went home. I have a terrific ID Doctor, and good follow up.
Dana // Jul 27, 2007 at 9:05 am
I was diagnosed with MRSA almost 3 years ago. I have been outbreak free, as has my boyfriend who also is a carrier, for almost a year and a half. I take acidopholus(sp?) every day and wash my hands quite a bit(not compulsively). I also try and fast every six months. I have found that by keeping my health at its best, for what I can do ( I am a full time grad student) has helped me. Prior to these small lifestyle changes I have breaking out in boils at least once every other month. I would be happy to go into greater detail about what preventative measures I take. Also, I went to the CDC and was told I would have MRSA forever, seeing that it had colonized in my nose and also the pereneum(sp?) layer of my skin. Great news right, but I am not going to let it get me down. Good luck all.
Emily // Aug 20, 2007 at 12:06 am
This is just crazy!!!
Does anyone know if it’s possible to contract MRSA and to not have physical symptoms for 13 years???
Montel Williams did a quick bit on his show one day about MRSA, and besides that, I’ve not read or heard anything else about it in terms of public awareness.
It’s a sad world when we live in a country with the best medical treatments available…ONLY IF you’ve got the money or good insurance to pay for it.
If you’re like me, (and way too many of us are) living from check to check, barely making ends meet, living w/o health insurance (and can’t get medi-cal because, I guess I’m too ‘responsible’ to qualify for it- I earn too much money and I’ve chosen to NOT bring a child into my already financially burdened life) then you’re just S.O.L.
The doctor wanted to give me an antibiotic shot, antibiotic pills (Cleocin), a topical antibiontic ointment, bloodwork tests, and an HIV test…
With the cost off the clinic visit, I was able to afford only the oral antibiotics and the ointment. I still don’t know if there’s something really wrong with me, or not… Something could be compromising my immune system causing me to have contracted MRSA, but, I was born here-I can’t afford to find out! What a country!
My heart and prayers go out to all who’ve been affected, inflicted, and infected by this unbelievable illness.
Rhoda // Aug 20, 2007 at 10:12 am
You can carry MRSA in your nose for your whole life without becoming infected. No one yet knows why some people break out with the disease and some don’t BUT, with the MRSA microbes everywhere, you could have picked this up at any time from any where. Researchers recently tested and found out that the MRSA microbes can survive at least two weeks on a coin kept at room temperature.
myspace.com/amyedits // Sep 16, 2007 at 1:17 pm
MRSA: Dallas County Jail Medical Requests Denied
Sunday July, 15 2007
Deanna’s mother visited her. She witnessed Deanna’s skin infections on her cheeks, chin, left under corner of mouth, and on lip/chin. Deanna said they removed Ambien from her medications, because they only give it to her for 30 days.
July 18 2007
Amy spoke with her public defender in District 363. She said she had not seen Deanna in a month. She put in a request “the following day” for health care. Deanna’s report was returned to the lawyer with a healthy approval. Atty is hoping for SAFP.org? or Cornell Dallas County Judicial Treatment for her addiction problems.
July 18, 2007
Amy visited Deanna. Saw sores over neck chest, breast ears, chin mouth upper lip. Deanna said she hasn’t seen her attorney in almost 2months. The Inmate psychologist/ doctor recommends Nexus treatment for her addiction problems, which resulted in her incarceration. Doctor gave her bactrum, topical antibiotic.
September 16, 2007
The life of this 20something year old mother of two over the last year is the grossest example an inmate, who was a drug addict. Without her shortcomings, the public would never be aware of the true horror of the disease spreading through not only Dallas County Jail, but also Texas State Prison, and Collin County systems while she awaited trial.
gary federigi // Sep 26, 2007 at 1:01 pm
i am a plumber for santa clara county in CA. i often work in the jails and i want to know how long the bacteria stays alive on my tools? i have looked at a lot of websites and i can’t find out how long it persists out in the open. if anyone knows or has an idea how i can find out it would appreciate the help.
Rhoda // Sep 28, 2007 at 10:49 am
Gary ~ I read online that in a test done in England MRSA stayed alive on a penny for two weeks at room temperature. Hope this helps you. In another test it has also been found that over 90% of hundred dollar bills tested positive for MRSA so it is everywhere. Rhoda
f8cleopatra // Sep 29, 2007 at 4:51 pm
People might have an auto immune disorder, or something similar to my cousin’s previous weak immune system. She had taken many antibiotics for many health infections, sinus and otherwise. So, if you give a person a chance to fight infection ask these questions: were you a smoker, drinker or a victim to another immune disease in your lifetime?
As far as you tools, I’d be more concerned about your disposable rubber gloves, antibacterial alcohol, and shoes which NEVER enter your home. The best quarantine I have seen so far is, scrub all appliances and clothes in hot water plus a detergent. Keep the shoes which trace infection and worms, yes WORMS (people have dogs they don’t treat). The best one I have heard to clean the water pipes is: AMMONIA! Yes, this helpful info came from the water safety control unit in Wylie, Texas. As long as you have a simple water purifier with a carbon filter, your water is safe to drink too.
My personal bet on your case is check about any rashes or respiratory infections you have had in the last 6 months to a year. A simple spore test under a microscope will tell you if you have either. If you have any rashes, do a swab test. Remember, if you have a family or share a shower, the spores can live in your nose/air vents and travel to other weaker immune systems to develop into M.R.S.A. So, go pay 90 bucks at the local carenow/primacare/or emergency out-care center and see what you do…or do not have.
Hope this advice works,
www.myspace.com/amyedits
Deanna’s M.R.S.A. story
http://amyedits.blogspot.com/2007_09_01_archive.html
Sarah // Oct 1, 2007 at 9:53 pm
I had MRSA off and on for 3 yrs before I found a doctor who actually told me what it was. By then, my Boyfriend had it. I took Sulfamethoxazole with Trimethoprim (which is Bactrim and Septra). It got rid of it, but he couldnt go on it because he is allergic to sulfas, so the dr put him on oral Clindamycin (which, if you know anything, Clindamycin Orally is very ineffective and still expensive).
He got it again, and a different Doctor put him on Zyvox, which was a $2,087 medicine. Suddenly, he has another boil on his knee…. Anyone know what else may be effective? Also, what precautions should I take to make sure I don’t get it again?
Rhoda // Oct 2, 2007 at 8:58 am
Doxycycline and Keflex are sometimes effective when used together. Rhoda
F8cleopatra // Oct 2, 2007 at 9:49 am
I’ve been reading the pharmaceuticals don’t help much at stage 2 or 3. You are past stage 3, so they advise I’ve found is: draining the lesion often and keeping it very dry.
Alternative methods if you can’t afford pills are: try any roots or leaf coverings which are known for draining open wounds. (Chinese medication or whole foods stores should have the basics in their homeopathy…or vegetable section). Theses methods dry out an infected area.
News-Medical.Net
http://www.news-medical.net/?id=6975
Essential oils have been found to kill the deadly MRSA bacteria
Medical Research News
Published: Tuesday, 21-Dec-2004
Print - Essential oils have been found to kill the deadly MRSA bacteria
Essential oils have been found to kill the deadly MRSA bacteria. Essential oils usually used in aromatherapy have been found to kill the deadly MRSA bacteria according to research carried out at The University of Manchester.
Another strange alternative, which seems to work: real leeches, since they suck infection from a local area! I know, sounds wierd, but it proves people are studying alternative approaches to heal! Hope this gets you started in a non-pharmaceutical approach.
Kate // Oct 2, 2007 at 12:25 pm
I was given Vancomycin in the hospital, as was another person I know. It is given by IV. I also had Zyvox after my release, and luckily my insurance company covered most of that. If they hadn’t I was told I would have to go to the hospital 2x a day for the IV instead, as it was covered. I hear it is the strongest antibiotic to use for MRSA.
As for precautions WASH everything - sheets, towels & clothes etc with bleach. The doctor also told me to change my sheets every other day. She also had me use Hibiclens in the shower, which is what surgeons use. It’s available at Walgreens, no presription. And of course wash hands very often.
Sarah // Oct 5, 2007 at 10:59 am
Thanks for the help. His Doctor is a moron… She said “These things sometimes come back. Just put this ointment on any boils you get.” I was like…O my goodness…no pills, no treatment at all….I told him if he gets even one more sore, go to a different Doctor. The doctor I went to was great. Gave me my meds, and I got better.
Anyhow, I’ll look up more on the natural treatments then. Thanks for the help guys!!!
LISA // Oct 9, 2007 at 10:34 am
My husband contracted MRSA in the bone during knee lazer surgery in 2000. (At that time only 1 in 3 million got it) After 4 surgeries to remove infection & 3 mos of IV vancomycin, he was left with nerve damage to his leg. He can’t straighten it out and has constant pain, now walks with a cane. Also has the face redness, peeling and ear peeling, scaling, sores on his scalp — these do not go away, they come and go with the ups & downs of his immune system. He also has yeast build up in his mouth, that can be as big as golf balls. After fighting this for 7 yrs he has it back again. This time in an artifical hip. Due to walking with the cane for so long, he developed arthritis in his hip. He went in to have it replaced, exactly 10 days later, he is septic again, this time with “regular” staph. After IV antibiotics don’t work, they take out the hip and discover a pocket of MRSA hiding behind the joint, and put in a “spacer”. October 1, put in a new hip and 10 days later, has it again. This time he is told he has HA-MRSA & CA-MRSA. They act different so don’t let anyone tell you they are the same. HA-MRSA is hosp acquired and lays dormant in the bloodstream and can reattack over & over, attacking weakest areas, especially artificial joints (wish someone told us that). It can colonize in the lungs & heart. CA-MRSA is community driven, can be passed like a cold, landing on sores etc. I hate it when people think he has “just MRSA”. Nurses & doctors can be so non-chalant about it because they see it all the time. I would like any of them to be in our shoes. He has had blood clots & even a subdural hemotoma in the brain. (which he was lucky to survived) The constant drugs take a toll on the body. Not only the physical problems, but the mental. This happened when my husband was 45 yrs old. He was never sick before, never took any meds. He lost his business, suffers from depression. I have a job with insurance or we couldn’t have survived this. HA-MRSA at that time only grew in a hosp, nursing home environment, but we could not sue. In our state, you have to prove where he got it: dirty instruments, surgeon or nurses hands, etc. Plus lawyers are greedy, don’t want cases when the plantive doesn’t make a huge living, for a loss of wages case. This has changed all of our lives and ruined my husbands.
Matthew // Oct 16, 2007 at 5:51 pm
I was diagnosed with mrsa 4 years ago and it has destroyed my life. I havent been able to function and go out, shop, cook . This infection is a terrible thing . I have it controlled to my nfoot right now but my foot hasent stopped bleeding for 3.5 years. I would love to do something to help our cause like bike across canada or marathon or something that will bring awarness if any one has any ideas to help please e-mail cookmore2003@yahoo.com lets make a difference so other people are not put in this situatiion like so many of us.
kelly frick // Oct 16, 2007 at 7:16 pm
my husband was diagnosefd with MRSA 2 weeks ago. on thursday they are going to try remove one graft from a prior by-pass that is infected and place a new one . They tell me the bacteria is no longer in his bloodstream , but if there is any and it exists during the surgery and jumps to the new graft we are going to have problems. I at this point am so scared that it just is there , I am going to lose him. He has so many health problems . I pray every day and night I don’t lose the love of my life!
Liz // Oct 16, 2007 at 7:18 pm
I have had MRSA 4 times in 5 months all different areas, This is the 2nd time on Zyvox. I thought I was getting it at the gym by the last time I got a boil I wasn’t there in a month and contracted it. I have scars from removing the boils, and this time it looks like I was shot. Only one person in my family contracted it and that was before I knew what it was, Since then (thank God) no one has gotten it. I seem to contract it around the same time as menstration. The ID Doctors seems to think I have overactive sweat glands at that time of the month since all areas were different and no open sores were present. Any one have an opinion….I really want this to stop I can’t go on Bactrum and the scars are visible.
shelli // Oct 17, 2007 at 7:20 pm
I work in a hospital. I would encourage patients and families to wash your hands when entering and leaving the hosptial. And please leave your children at home. I feel so bad for the children that are dragged to the hospital and enter rooms. I see them play on the floors it really concerns me. I tell people time and time again. But, again family members do not want to here it. They threaten the nurses if we say anything about washing their hands.
Michele // Oct 19, 2007 at 1:56 pm
A few weeks ago I was in the ER and was told my the attending doctors that he strongly believed I have MRSA….please continue to read.
I have been having staph/MRSA like system for over 5 years. I lived in Va. Beach when it started and moved up to the Richmond area 3 years ago. I have got to many doctors at the Beach and here and they give me antibiotics. The a few weeks or months later, I have an out break. The doctors have never told me why I am getting these infections, like giant boils. I just had an outbreak not to long ago; I went to the ER last week. The doctor then told me that he believes I had MRSA but never did a culture or even a test to determine if this is what I did indeed have. He gave me some meds in an IV then sent me home with a prescription as well. So I am now left with wondering if I really do have MRSA. Two weeks I had a boil like bump big in size on my chest then a week later I had about 4 small ones on my upper right leg. All of a sudden, my knee started hurting and sure enough, with in two days, my knee was red, hot and swollen about 2 1/2 times the normal size. For years I have been trying to get an answer to my question; Do I have a staph infection or MRSA?” These skin infections have been coming and going for years. They are very painful. My children have even had a boil once or twice. They are ages 14, 5 & 3. If I do have this, I need to know so I can ensure they are properly taking care of.
Liz // Oct 19, 2007 at 9:24 pm
Michele sounds to me like it…Why it keeps coming back I’d like to know also. I just went off my antibotics hoping to go more that 2 weeks without another boil.
matt // Oct 20, 2007 at 9:05 am
Well I have been told I am having surgery after 3.5 years of living with the mrsa bug .This bug has ruined my life and my family’s lives. I am terrified to go back to to a hospital. I am scared of having surgery and the bug getting into my bloodstream and terrified of this infection causing my death , I am not ready to go , I have 2 small daughters and a beautiful wife that needs me. I think we all need to revolt till the important people hear our crys . this is a bug that can be stopped with the right education , and preventitive measures. We need to march in every city stand up for if not ourselves other people that will one day get this bug if nothing is done .kinda like right now. In all 3.5 years I have never even been told much about this infection, I had to find all information for myself. this is not right.
kate // Oct 20, 2007 at 9:32 am
Michele, I would INSIST on a culture being done. A nurse in the ER suggested it to the doctor after I spoke with her about the several other smaller infections I had. It was MRSA.
Also after the anitbiotics do the doctors continue to follow up with you and have you use special soap, ointment for the nose to kill the bacteria where it often sits? My ID doctor was great, and I was seeing her 2x a week at the beginning. She also said to not shave my legs for a few weeks, call her if I had any type of cut and she would see me - anything to try and keep it from coming back again. It is very serious, and as we’ve seen more in the news lately can cause death. You have to keep going to other doctors and get someone to listen to you. Especially if you risk that other family members will become colonized too.
Charlie // Oct 20, 2007 at 4:29 pm
My girlfriend was diagnosed with MRSA two days ago, and I just found out about it last night. She’s only 15, and is obviously very scared. What’s more, the doc said she’s resistant to Vancomycin. Does anyone have any info about what we can do to get her treated? Unsurprisingly, her Doctor wouldnt give her much info, and even said there is no other med’s she can be on, despite the fact that I’ve done countless hours of research on it over the last 24 hours and I’ve seen suggestions as to other antibiotics that she can take. If anyone has any info, please help!
matt // Oct 21, 2007 at 1:15 am
Charlie get your girlfriend into an emergency and have them take a culture swab and the lab will be able to determine which antibiotics her infection are resistant to. I have been dealing with this infection for almost 4 years and want to help as many people as I can, this infection is a terrible bug kills more people than aids. I wish you and her all the best just stick with her she will need you. Times get really rough and dealing with something like this is impossible. If I can be of more assistance or you guys want to talk please feel free to e-mail me at cookmore2003@yahoo.com.
Heather // Oct 21, 2007 at 7:46 pm
I am a 24 year old woman. I was traveling last week for my career (Marketing Representative) and many times when I stay in hotels I get pimples from the sheets. I woke up Thursday morning with a zit close to my spine in between my shoulder blades. When I noticed the wound becoming infected I started to think that it was a spider bite (due to the pain).
Friday my infection was a little bigger with a white and yellow head, the tissue hard underneath, and very red skin all the way around it. I went to a Convenient Care center (since my doctor was unable to see me) and the doctor tried to pop the infection, but was unsuccessful. So she decided to just prescribe me antibiotics. I told her that if she wanted to cut into it to get a culture she could. She said that I should be just fine with the antibiotics.
I have now been on the antibiotics for three days and I’m in a lot of pain; the wound doesn’t seem to be healing at all. I drained it today and a lot of bright yellow discharge came out. I plan on going to the doctor asap tomorrow because from all of my research I do believe it is MRSA.
I’m very scared about the treatment, especially since it is so close to my spine. Can anyone tell me what is the usual treatment in this matter? Also, is this something I will have to live with the rest of my life? Since I get breakouts so often this scares me. It especially scares me with all of the news stories of people around my age dying from it.
lindsay // Oct 21, 2007 at 10:16 pm
My husband, Matt, received the MRSA infection after undergoing surgery following a car accident. It has been almost 5 years, and I have seen how it has affected him both mentally and physically. The past few months he has gotten really depressed, just tired of living with this horrible curse. The doctors are never very helpful- I go to almost all of his appointment with him, including numerous visits to the emergency room. Doctors and nurses are incredibly careless, and it is usually up to him to point out the precautions that must be taken in order to prevent spreading the bug. Matt has been amazingly strong throughout all of this, but I just wish that there was something that could be done. I think knowledge and education are the key. Everyone who has posted messages here needs to be strong and fight to receive the proper care; you are all in my thoughts.
matt // Oct 21, 2007 at 10:19 pm
My husband, Matt, received the MRSA infection after undergoing surgery following a car accident. It has been almost 5 years, and I have seen how it has affected him both mentally and physically. The past few months he has gotten really depressed, just tired of living with this horrible curse. The doctors are never very helpful- I go to almost all of his appointment with him, including numerous visits to the emergency room. Doctors and nurses are incredibly careless, and it is usually up to him to point out the precautions that must be taken in order to prevent spreading the bug. Matt has been amazingly strong throughout all of this, but I just wish that there was something that could be done. I think knowledge and education are the key. Everyone who has posted messages here needs to be strong and fight to receive the proper care; you are all in my thoughts. I love Matt more than anything, and I just believe that he deserves to be treated better by the medical community than how he has been for most of his time with MRSA. They just don’t seem to understand what the people who suffer with this superbug truly go through everyday
carla // Oct 29, 2007 at 6:55 am
I just need someone to talk too?
Debra // Oct 29, 2007 at 10:35 am
The stories I read here are both horrific and heart breaking. I posted a while back, because I had an outbreak of MRSA last year on my elbow. Because my partner (ex) had had it, I knew about it, and demanded that my doctor test for it - so it was properly diagnosed, and I was prescribed a sulfa compound, which worked GREAT. Thought I was breaking out again at one point, but didn’t.
One person said I must have a strong immune system to not have broken out with this before; it may be true. I eat a lot of raw food; I avoid much processed food; I don’t over eat wheat or pasta, which my system lets me know doesn’t agree with me. I rely on salads a lot, and as a cook, have discovered many types of salads. And I definitely don’t mean iceberg lettuce (down with iceberg!!!) But one of the most powerful but simple food/medicines I have found to boost the immune system, fight infection and virus is CINNAMON AND HONEY. Either one alone is powerful, but the combination is a powerful healer; and it seems to be the most INEXPENSIVE way to boost ones immune system.
We understand that this bug is everywhere now (on money, etc); the people who don’t get it must be doing something right. Try this simple remedy and see if your energy gets a boost. One tsp of honey to one tsp of cinnamon powder. Eat the paste, make a tea from it, put it on bread if you must (my last choice). Augment your tea with raw lemon and fresh ginger. This remedy helped me tremendously, and I do it on a daily basis now. Stress wears a body down, makes the immune system weaker. We can’t escape stress in this society, but we CAN improve our diet. We have to stop, when possible, eating vitamin-deficient foodstuffs that surround us in this society. The store is full of them, fast food restaurants build their businesses on our weaknesses and then doctors don’t want to deal with the fallout. It’s up to us.
william jester // Oct 29, 2007 at 9:03 pm
pa. . department of corrections. my wife is in a inmate state institutions. DOC said not to belive my wife that she is lieing. that there is no outbrake in the state institutions. so who do itrust my wife or the doctor at doc. i belive my wife. the do not wint you to no.
connie // Nov 1, 2007 at 3:33 am
my mother lost her life to mrsa on september 7,2007. she had aortic valve replacement surgery on may 31,2007 and landed back in the icu three times after and her last time started on august 27,2007. she was admitted for an infection which i found out by going on the internet was sepsis. she had a very difficult time breathing and i repeatedly told them that i wanted her put on the respirator but they did not do this until august 31,2007. i consulted with my niece who is a doctor because i wanted to get her opinion. i told the hospital to disclose all medical information to her. she then consulted with a cardioligist. when i talked to her she told me mom had mrsa and they had to pinpoint the source and amputate it and she said they should send a scope down to look at the aortic valve. i asked repeatedly for this to be done and was told several times that they were going to do it. her surgeon did not even look at her until two days after she was admitted and two more days went by and i caught him leaving the icu and asked him if he thought mom would make it and his answer to me was that she was a very sick lady and he was going away for the weekend but he would look in on her when he got back and then he added that he did not know where the infection was coming from but it was not her aortic valve. they did not even give her the antibiotic for the mrsa until five days after she was admitted and it was not working. i told the head cardioligist of the icu that time was running out and i wanted the mrsa pinpointed and amputated. her answer to me was that all the cardioligists said that it was coming from her aortic valve. i told her that i talked to her surgeon and he said it was not coming from her aortic valve. her answer to me was do you really think that the surgeon would admit that there was something wrong with the valve? i almost fell over when she made that comment. i told her i wanted something done or i would make arrangements to move her to another hospital that would help her. she then went and talked to a surgeon that had over looked my mother the last two times she was in the icu. she came to me and said he was willing to help me. he called me the very next morning and said he was willing to do the surgery because it was the only way she was going to live and he admitted that the infection came from the hospital. he said he was going to talk to the surgeon that did the surgery on my mother and find out what he thought went wrong. well unfortunately her surgeon returned and denied her the surgery. i told him that i wanted the surgery done because it was her only chance and his answer to me was that he did not think she had the quality of life. my mother ended up having a allergic reaction to the antibiotics and lost almost all of her blood in her body so i had to pull life support. i will never forgive these people because there was nothing but lies and promises that they never followed thru with. who does this surgeon think he is god ? my mother had alot of quality of life!!!
Debra // Nov 1, 2007 at 11:22 am
My heart goes out to Connie, who lost her mother due to MRSA and the doctor(s) who didn’t think it was important enough to listen to her. We need a new generation of doctors, who have open hearts/minds/ears, and we need to insist on these things until they become manifest. Do not let the ignorance (or deliberate withholding) of the medical profession dictate whether your loved ones live or not.
margaret // Nov 2, 2007 at 10:40 am
I’ve been diagnosed with “possible MRSA” after 3wks of Keflex and boils still coming back. My household is undergoing “decontamination” and I’m afraid my 2yo son might get it. My PCP seems to think that this round of Bactrim, bleach baths & Bactroban will get rid of the MRSA, but it sounds like it never goes away. That scares me. Has anyone been “cured”?
Debbie // Nov 2, 2007 at 8:07 pm
This information from real people is extremely helpful. I agree with everyone, 90% of the doctors are uneducated, misdiagnosing, and treating “real people” with negligence and unfortunately making things worse. There is no excuse that 100% of the medical community is not testing for staph which will show MRSA-NONE. This had been reported as the major concern for a few years now. If they would treat it properly and bring the attention due - then maybe it would not be growing and more people suffering and dying. This is ridiculous. However, also, it seems like the doctors don’t truly understand how to treat it properly. You can go to 10 different doctors and get 6 different ways of treating it. I have CVID (immune defficiance and uclerative colitis). My weakened immune system combined with remicade treatments for the colitis leave me even more suseptible. I have a current case of confirmed MRSA and am on my second dose of antibiotics - the first time was bactrim which did nothing until they added Rifampin (sp?). After dose was complete, it came back a few days later meaning it did not clear as it was resistant. Now I had to fight to get a stronger antibiotic…I have a good doctor (specialist ENT) however, I recommend everyone push for a referral to an infectious disease doctor if you have reocurring infections or if you have a suppressed immune system! Don’t wait…I experienced the similar situations of doctors not caring and being arrogant - how dare we be concerned and question our treatment. Well, it is our lives not theirs. I do not believe in fragrant law suits - but what will it take to get doctors to treat the disease as if “they” had it. I noticed both times my infection surfaced it happened after antibiotic treatment and/or when my immune system was struggling. I believe in what someone said above…compliment any treatment by resting, eating healthy foods (fruits, vegatables, cutting out sugar, eating healing foods like garlic, onion, ginger, etc.) I used garlic topically as well on the first infection with the antibiotics and it was amazing how it helped heal the abcess (sp?) Two great books I have found are The makers diet and What would Jesus eat which spells out naturally healing foods and remedies that have worked long before antibiotics were handed out like candy. There were natural cures for centuries…get as educated as possible - and check out the search libraries of well know clinical hospitals (like UAB in Birmingham Alabama, Mayo clinics, Harvard, etc.) UAB site even researches natural as well as other clinical testing - there was an article about garlic helping MRSA. I will continue to read what other people experience and keep researching and take a whole approach to healing which includes finding the right doctor, using the meds that are proven, gettin educated, staying off antiobiotics unless absolutely needed, eating fresh fruits and veggies, using herbs, etc. Good luck to you all. Please continue to share - your information is so helpful.
Josefine // Nov 4, 2007 at 2:06 pm
I am a student and a former collegiate athlete. I had MRSA three times in my two years on the sports team and decided that my body could not handle another infection. I quit the team. Many of my friends who are still on the team continue to get MRSA with little concern from the coaches or athletic staff. I am currently in an environment and public health journalism class and am working on a story about MRSA. I found this site online and was wondering if anyone had any specific stories of their experiences to tell me. Again, this is just for a class and real names do not have to be used. I am writing this article purely, because of my strong interest in the infectious disease due to personal experience. I find it incredibly unfortunate that MRSA is just now gaining media attention. If anyone has any really interesting stories to share, they would be very appreciated. Also, if anyone can refer me to someone who would be willing to speak with me on the subject (patients, parents, doctors, school officials…,) I would be grateful. Thank you and take care.
shaffer // Nov 7, 2007 at 3:27 pm
my husband, me and my kids all have mrsa we have been hospilized my 2 year old daughter just was in october my doctor swabed our nose to see who the carrier was and me and my five year old son is we were treated with a nasal swab we had to apply inside for 14 days . then we are going to get tested again to see if it is gone . my son has had7 breakouts my husband 14 my daughter 2 and i 1breakout whick all had to be cut open and packed
Winnie // Nov 7, 2007 at 8:59 pm
My boyfriend and I have MRSA. I have my first appointment with an infectious disease specialist tomorrow. I am very concerned and need support. I have been unable to work and very depressed and am too afraid of getting the wrong antibiotics that I left several wounds untreated. Ugh. I hate this stuff.
joseph boucher // Nov 9, 2007 at 10:42 am
maine my girlfriend just found out she has mersain the last three day it sgot close to the siz of a pennie it weard and im worryed and i don t want it i think she got it at work she is a cna and i used to hope fright trains all over the usa iv had stalf before on the road but never mersa but any way waht should i do should i go on meds just in case should travaling kidds be really worred about this iv been with this girl for fivre years i don t want to lose her we have roomatesa what about them and if this mersa spread so quik why don t thay coreneenpepole who have it well i now thay do but im saying in the beging ya now please help joeyb
Winnie // Nov 9, 2007 at 10:48 am
Joey,
I don’t know that a doctor will medicate you unless you have MRSA also.
The best thing I know to do is:
Don’t share razors, towels or other personal items.
Keep her wounds clean and covered.
Wash your hands.
Avoid picking your nose.
Do not try and drain her wounds. See a doctor.
I wish there were better answers for us. I’m scared too!
Peace,
Winnie
James Frick // Nov 12, 2007 at 8:36 pm
My wife Kelly made a comment on this site while i was in the hospital about 3 weeks ago. She thought i was surely going to die. I Have MRSA in my bloodstream and am still recieving treatment. I feel for everyone and anyone effected by this scary bactiria. I almost died and believe i have a good understanding of what to lok for and watch out for, and help anyone conserned…i’m not out of danger myself yet. need to talk… have q?? my name is jim email frickinclearwater@yahoo.com
amber hatfield // Nov 13, 2007 at 1:19 pm
my daugter is 3 yrs old i dont know much about this staph but i do know she has it and im really scared that she will die the doctors tell me there is nothing to worry about but i know they are liars she first had an outbreak may 17 2007 i need someone to talk to about this no one will help me because they think they will get this bug im scared because not only do i have a daughter with it but i also have two sons who are 2 and 6 one is in school so please will you guys help me i really do need to know im only 23 , 3 kids and i live in a very small town only 97 people and no one has the bug except for my precious little girl and everyone here treats her like a disease i hate it so please someone help!!!!!!!! thanks for reading my story. amber hatfield chemult or
Debra // Nov 13, 2007 at 1:30 pm
This comment is mainly for Amber Hatfield, but for anyone that has ‘ears to hear’, so to speak… Amber, it is natural to be afraid in this situation, with one child sick w/MRSA, and having two more that may contract it. It is hard to imagine that you and your children will be able to avoid the bug, due to living together. I’m not a proponent of bleach, but I hear of people really nuking their homes (clothes, surfaces, etc) with bleach to ‘kill’the bacteria. You need to boost the immune systems of both yourself and your children, however. Because this bacteria is everywhere, basically… did you know that tea tree oil and lavender are both antibacterial in effect? There are more (thyme oil, for gosh sake), but these two are cheap and easily available. Dr. Bronner’s soap is usually available, and if you can’t get it, post again w/your address and I SEND YOU SOME, ok! Wash surfaces with tea tree oil soap and/or lavender, mix them… ingest at will cinnamon/honey paste (one tsp of each, mixed) - teas with fresh lemon and raw ginger are powerful, and the paste can be a tea, too, or put on toast. Another lady in this forum mentioned some kind of seaweed. All seaweed is GREAT for strengthening the system and supplying iodine. We have to start on the inside, I think; if we are strong constitutionally, then these bugs can not make us sick. Get rid of the white flour, white sugar, airy cereals with mostly sugar, and be strong nutritionally. It’s one of the best gifts you can give your children. I wish you, and everyone dealing with this bug, the best.
James Frick // Nov 13, 2007 at 7:26 pm
Amber,
Please don’t let anyone tell you theres nothing to worry about or give you some goofy idea that if you eat the right things and drink the right things all is good …it’s not …I have MRSA. Just spent 3weeks in intensive care.. I want you to be very conserned …not scared there are good treatments. Last week I thought i would die. This week i want to talk with anyone with this illness. Push your Dr. for blood cultures now! If you want to talk you can email me @ frickinckearwater@yahoo.com
jasmine // Nov 14, 2007 at 9:55 pm
my dr. thinks i may have mrsa. i have a boil inside my left ear canal, and it is killing me! i have pain all around my ear and even down my neck. it’s not draining yet. she said if it does to come in right away so they could do a culture to see. until then she gave me a prescription for bactrim ds. does this sound familiar to anyone else? i don’t know how this serious this could be or if i must have a mild case… for what it’s worth someone told me this evening that olive leaf extract will keep the boils away…. any info would be much appreciated. thanks!
James Frick // Nov 15, 2007 at 3:33 pm
Jasmine, don’t take this lightly. push your Dr. to do both blood tests and blood cultures. the sore need not be draining to get these results. The sooner the better! Maybe its nothing but it could be life threatining. I know …I’ve been there. If you have questions contact me at frickinclearwater@yahoo.com I’m not a Dr. but I have spent to much time in intensive care. anyone who thinks they may have MRSA please it serious. Jimmy
Josefine Strong // Nov 26, 2007 at 7:43 pm
My name is Josefine Strong. I have had MRSA three times, one of which was quite serious. These were all due to athletic-related infections. Having had MRSA and having followed the media attention on the topic, I have gained quite an interest in the topic. I am a college student and I am currently working on a paper for an environmental and public health journalism class. I am trying to write a paper that tells a really personal story - something different from the typical report. If anyone would be willing to share their story with me for my paper, I would really appreciate it. I have been speaking with some top doctors at the University of Michigan Medical School on the topic and would love to share the information with everyone (and will do so when I have finished my interviews.) This paper will most likely not be published, but there is a slight possibility. If anyone would be willing to send me their story, I will put it in the paper and send you the finished product. My email address is josefinestrong@gmail.com. I am most interested in the story and emotions behind the infection. Whatever you would want others to know about MRSA that isn’t being told. I am not trying to use the support network to get a better grade. I am sorry if it may seem this way. I am really trying, as a MRSA survivor, to tell a different side of the story. Thank you all, good luck, and take care.
Brian // Nov 27, 2007 at 12:47 pm
I went into the hospital for a routine hernia surgery. After the surgery, while I was still there, they admitted a man who had MRSA and put him in the bed next to mine. They were draining fluid from his leg. I found out two weeks ago after I had to be readmitted with fever, chills, etc. that I now have HA-MRSA. I was put on Bactrim and my symptoms now seem to be gone, but I’m stilll draining yellow fluid from the drain tube that they put in me.
I am so extremely angry that I (as well as my wife and daughter) will have to worry about this for the rest of our lives. Though my symptoms are gone, I know it could and probably will flare up again any time.
I can’t stand the fact that doctors and hospitals display the attitude that “oh well….it’s too bad you have mrsa. Lots of people are getting it now.” I have it due to their irresponsibility, not simply due to “oh well…that’s the breaks”.
Thanks for letting me vent!
Brian // Nov 27, 2007 at 12:50 pm
I went into the hospital for a routine hernia surgery. After the surgery, while I was still there, they admitted a man who had MRSA and put him in the bed next to mine. They were draining fluid from his leg. I found out two weeks ago after I had to be readmitted with fever, chills, etc. that I now have HA-MRSA. I was put on Bactrim and my symptoms now seem to be gone, but I’m stilll draining yellow fluid from the drain tube that they put in me.
I am so extremely angry that I (as well as my wife and daughter) will have to worry about this for the rest of our lives. Though my symptoms are gone, I know it could and probably will flare up again any time.
I can’t stand the fact that doctors and hospitals display the attitude that “oh well….it’s too bad you have mrsa. Lots of people are getting it now.” I have it due to their irresponsibility, not simply due to “oh well…that’s the breaks”.
Thanks for letting me vent!
Brian
Sherri // Nov 27, 2007 at 1:06 pm
Brian, this is terrible and very irresponsible of the hospital. The other individual should have been isolated. These hospitals better get educated real fast. I have had 4 episodes. My chances of going through this again are very likely. Unless a person has had it, one will know it’s severity. We have to do our own homework, because it seems some do not care. I know the warning signs now. If I can be of more help, e-mail me: willey2@netins.net. I wish you well during your recovery!
Erich // Dec 5, 2007 at 8:00 pm
I had a small bump that itched a little on top of my ring finger. Just like a mosquito bite so I wasn’t suspicious. I woke up 24 hours later to find a dime size boil with a small pusstule in the center. I went to work with excrutiating pain in the entire finger. Burning and a horrible dull pain that radiated to the bone. I’ve been in pain before but not like this. I did some quick research on the internet and went straight to the ER and told the doctor I had been bitten by a brown recluse spider. WRONG!!! He took a long look at it and asked about other symptoms. I also had a fever and my bones and joints throughout my body ached as if I had the flu. He had me remove my shirt where he proceed to show me that red trails had moved up my knuckle and into my hand and partway up my arm. He proceeded to calmly lance the small puss filled boil and said the word……..MRSA. I had heard of it on the news but….seriously…..cmon…..NOT ME!!! He started me on AVELOX and DOXYCYCLINE and asked me to call in 2 days (Dec. 6th) to get results on which strain I hd so they can tailor a more aggressive drug to counter this specific type. I have been terrified after doing tons of research the last day or so. I thought it was a virus that was killed and/or cured very easily. I’m starting to feel very scared as most every site has horrifying stories of death, destruction and constant ongoing battles. I’m scared for my wife and 2 kids and I am truly freaked out. Other than this, I’m a healthy 31 year old male. Can anyone post a positive comment about a story that ends with a happy ending?? For the first time in my life I feel vulnerable. I feel for anyone who has had to endure the stress that goes along with this. Although the dr. didn’t seem to worried, I am.
scared
Liz // Dec 5, 2007 at 8:00 pm
Today after I screamed at the ID doctor yesterday because MRSA has returned twice since my last post. I have been put on retna-A to reduce the bacteria in my skin from when I sweat and now have burned skin, he calls to put me on IV antibotics. I’ve been on Zyvox 4 times in 6 months and have never gone more than 3 week without a flare up that always needs to be lanced. Will this work, or ever go away. No one else is my family has flare ups
Debra // Dec 5, 2007 at 8:07 pm
This comment is for Erich. I want to say something positive, as you requested. I have posted my mrsa experience on this forum, and you can check that out. My experience was brief - and I had lived with someone who had several mrsa flareups! I had to help him ‘up close’ with his boils, and yet I never broke out - until two years after we split up. The site was on my elbow, which surprised me; when I went to the dr, I already knew about mrsa, and was suspiecious, so I directed her to just treat me for that. It WAS mrsa, she gave me a sulfa compound, I started feeling better in two days.
My recommendation is to curb your fear, as it affects you physically and is communicated to your family. Eat cinnamon honey paste (google that!), lots of water, vit C, fresh greens, get off the processed food, ease up on red meat and cheese…. things you can do to boost your immune system is the direction to go, and there are several pathways to do so. Best of luck to you, and all of us…. rest, drink pure water and try not to worry - prayers.
carla // Dec 5, 2007 at 11:21 pm
u know what ive been going through this for 2/yrs now an my health isnt getting any better my mom crys alot she told me that shes scared that if they dont find a med. thats going to work on me im just going to keep getting worse . but told her to keep praying an maybe the man above will help me out of this but im still a little scared myself but dont show to my family ive got to stay strong for them :
MaryMorales // Dec 13, 2007 at 9:04 am
My husband has been breaking out with boils for the past 3 years. He has such bad boils that they leave big scars like he was shot. He was diagnosed last year with MRSA. All the doctors seem to do is prescribe bactrim. It works for a month maybe 3 and he breaks out again. I’m so scared for my children 8 and 5. Does this live dormant in your bloodstream until it pops out in a boil form? Is there a cure? We do practice good hygeine. I wash with tide and I spray all door knobs, light switches and countertops with lysol. I don’t know what else to do. Is there anyone who can give me more info?
Michele MORRIS // Dec 13, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Mary,
I have been having boil break outs for the past 7 years. I too have been diagnosed with MRSA by an ER Doctor who prescribed bactrim for me. I have three kids ages 14, 5 & 3. They have had a boil here and there but nothing like I have. I just had one go away in my nose! Now that was not fun. I have had them on my face, thigh, shin, arm, just about all over. I am just as fustrated as you are but NO ONE seems to give a crap and wants