How can you tell whether you have MRSA ?

MRSA commonly colonizes the nostrils.  For most people, MRSA infections can be detected by the treating doctor taking a swab of the nostrils and isolating the bacteria found inside.

MRSA can also infect other parts of the respiratory tract, open wounds, the urinary tract and intravenous catheters.

Some people may be carriers of MRSA and show no signs of infection for long periods, even years.

People with weakened immune systems are at a much higher risk of secondary infection where symptoms are usually noticeable.

See "What are the symptoms of MRSA" for physical signs of infection.