Skip to main content

Condition

Pediatric Staph and MRSA Infection

Key points about MRSA in children

  • MRSA is staph bacteria that can’t be killed with common antibiotics.
  • MRSA is usually limited to the skin. It can be life-threatening if it spreads to the lungs, the bloodstream or other organs. MRSA infection can be harder to treat than other staph infections. But other oral or IV (intravenous) antibiotics can successfully treat the infection.
  • MRSA infections are more common in groups of people that spend a lot of time close together, such as kids on a sports team. MRSA may be on sports equipment and clothing. It may transfer from skin to skin during play.
  • Symptoms include painful red bumps that leak fluid. A child may also have a fever, chills, and headache.
  • If your child has a mild MRSA skin infection, the healthcare provider will likely treat it by opening the infected sore and draining out the fluid (pus). You will likely be given a prescription antibiotic ointment to use on your child. Your child may also need to take antibiotic medicine by mouth.
  • Don't try to treat a MRSA infection on your own. This can spread the infection to other people or make it worse for your child. Cover the infected area, wash your hands, and call your child's healthcare provider.

Appointments

Our team is standing by to schedule your child’s appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MRSA in children?

What causes MRSA infection in a child?

Which children are at risk for MRSA?

What are the symptoms of MRSA in a child?

How is MRSA diagnosed in a child?

How is MRSA treated in a child?

What are possible complications of MRSA in a child?

How can I help prevent MRSA in my child?

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

A boy looking out the window.

Infectious Diseases Treatment at Children's National Hospital

Our Division of Infectious Diseases is the major referral center for infectious diseases in the Washington, D.C., area, helping thousands of young patients each year with contagious conditions. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

A boy looking out the window.
Girl Smiling and Clapping

Help Kids and Make a Difference

Invest in future cures for some of life's most devastating diseases. Give today to help more children grow up stronger.

Girl Smiling and Clapping

PATIENT STORY

Molly's Story

Providers Who Treat Staph and MRSA Infection

    Departments that Treat Staph and MRSA Infection

    young patient plays with paper airplanes

    Infectious Diseases

    Our Division of Infectious Diseases is the major referral center for infectious diseases in the Washington, D.C., area, helping thousands of patients each year, and actively promoting prevention through community outreach and education.