Expert: Charles Cusumano, PA-C, DFAAPA - 6/27/2009

Question
My sister has been in the hospital for two weeks and is hooked up to a ventilator.  My mom has been at the hospital with her everyday.  Recently the doctors discovered she has mrsa in her lungs that they say is "dormant".  Now, they are asking my mom to wear a gown and glove when visiting her.  I have a 4 week old baby and 2 1/2 year old at home and was wondering what the chances of my mom bringing mrsa to my house is?  How easy is it spread if the infection is "dormant" like the doctors say it is?  Could my mom have caught it before they were taking the extra precautions?

Thank you so much!
Jen

Answer
Hi Jen,
Chances are sligh that she has been contaminated. I would say that her doctors are playing it safe. The mask is for her protection as well as your sister’s. They don’t want your Mom to catch this nor do they want your sister contaminated by anything your Mom might bring in. No special precautions. Just wear a mask in the room and wash hands before leaving and you should be OK.