Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

MRSA is a Staphylococcus aureus bacterium that is resistant to antibiotic treatment. Infection can be spread from person to person through skin contact or from using contaminated medical equipment. MRSA infections most commonly occur in hospitals and other healthcare settings, especially among immunocompromised (weakened immune system) patients.

More Information about MRSA

English
Public Health Agency of Canada - Community-Acquired MRSA Fact Sheet: English and Français

Reporting

Individual cases are not reportable to the Health Unit.

Should one go to childcare, school, or work if they have MRSA?

No exclusion necessary unless too ill to participate in regular activities.

Follow the direction of your healthcare provider or occupational health at your workplace.

Note: Exclusion guidelines may differ for healthcare workers.

Healthcare Provider and Community Partner Information

IPAC Canada: ARO Resources
Public Health Ontario: Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Public Health Ontario: Management of a Single New Case of MRSA
Public Health Ontario: Annex A - Screening, Testing, and Surveillance for AROs
- See p. 50 for MRSA Staff Fact Sheet
- See p. 54-55 for MRSA Information Sheet for Patients and Visitors
Public Health Ontario: ARO Risk-Factor Based Screening Guidance for All Healthcare Settings Screening Checklist
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases: Fact Sheet MRSA in Correctional Facilities and Shelters

Contact our Communicable Disease Control (CDC) program at 705-474-1400 or toll free at 1-800-563-2808, ext. 5229, or by email to cdc@healthunit.ca for more information.

Last updated: Nov. 2025, by CDC