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Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common skin bacterium that develops mechanisms to resist being abolished by penicillin. Methicillin is a penicillin-based antibiotic, like amoxicillin. Children and adults alike are at increased risk for MRSA when they take penicillin antibiotics too often or don’t finish the course of antibiotics they are prescribed. With that said, penicillin is a great first-line antibiotic against common ear, throat and other common bacterial infections. It is also important to not take antibiotics not prescribed by your healthcare provider, or take antibiotics when you have a viral infection, as this will reduce your resistance.
Overuse of antibiotics is dangerous for everyone, including children. In this video, Dr. Robin Miller explains how children who are prescribed too many antibiotics are more likely to get a Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infection.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.