Does tanning help mrsa?

We have all heard the benefits of tanning – it improves mood and provides a healthy glow. But what about its effects on Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)? Could spending time in the sun actually help combat this stubborn bacterium? We did some digging to find out.

What is MRSA?

Before we delve into whether or not tanning can help with MRSA, we need to understand exactly what it is. MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that has become resistant to most antibiotics commonly used to treat regular staph infection. It can cause infections in various parts of the body, ranging from mild skin infections to more serious bloodstream or surgical site infections.

The Science Behind Tanning

Tanning occurs when our skin absorbs UV radiation from the sun or artificial light sources such as tanning beds. The process triggers melanocytes (cells responsible for producing pigment) in our skin to produce more melanin, which darkens our skin tone and helps protect us from further damage caused by UV radiation.

While there are undoubtedly some benefits associated with controlled exposure to UV rays – increased vitamin D production being one example – overexposure comes with risks that far outweigh any potential rewards.^1

Can Tanning Help Combat MRSA?

So back to the question at hand: does tanning help fight off MRSA? Sadly, no research supports this claim. In fact, exposing open wounds and infected areas directly to sunlight could lead them becoming further irritated or potentially worsening symptoms.^2

Inversely related also indicates that people who use surrogates- indoor ultraviolet irradiation topically – had higher incidences than those not using surrogates during hospital stays^3.

Other methods should be pursued if someone wants relief from these nasty bugs!

So How Do You Treat MRSA?

While you might be disappointed to hear that tanning will not help you combat MRSA, the good news is there are other proven ways to treat and prevent infections caused by this bacterium. Some possible options include:

1. Antibiotics

While antibiotics are generally less effective against MRSA than regular staph infection, some strong antibiotic medications still work to fight off the bacteria in more serious cases.^4

2. Keeping Wounds Clean and Covered

It’s important to keep any open wounds – especially those infected with MRSA – clean and covered with a dressing until the skin has healed completely. This can minimize bacterial spread as well as your risk of developing further infections.

3. Good Hygiene Habits

Regularly washing your hands, especially before handling food or touching any open wounds, is an essential part of keeping yourself healthy when it comes to any infectious illness.

Wrapping Up

So unfortunately folks, while we all love soaking up the sun for its many benefits including increased vitamin D production- it won’t benefit us from fighting off MRSA specifically! Staying informed both about how tanning works and what we need to do if affected with MRSA, will however set us on our journey towards better health!

Remember: The risks associated with overexposure far outweighs any potential reward derived from excessive exposure.
Let’s stay indoors if necessary but also go outside often for daily fresh air- let’s take care of ourselves during these times!

  • 1) Skincancer.org (2020).
  • 2) nlm.nih.gov (2018)
  • 3) Tawbi HA,Hoyt R,Friedman G(2006). Clin Infect Dis;42:2515–2522
  • 4) mayoclinic.org

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