If the so-called "super bug" has you super scared, you aren't alone. The staph infection that is almost completely antibiotic-resistant —known as MRSA — appears as a small infection or may look like tiny spider bite. Because of this, it can be misdiagnosed. MRSA can become more dangerous if, for instance, for people with weak immune systems, or those have had recent surgery. If these cases, infections can quickly worsen.

Recently, drug-resistant infections — including MRSA — have been in the headlines, as they have been linked to several deaths. It is important to know that staph infections can be spread by contact. But, you can contract an infection with more than just person-to-person contact; you can also pick-up the bacteria by other means, such as touching a contaminated surface.

Because many people who seek care at hospitals already have compromised immune systems, it would be natural for patients to have concerns if they are in an environment that is clean, sterile and free of germs.

That is exactly why the MO Legislature passed a bill that requires hospitals to report their healthcare related infections to the MO Department of Health and Senior Services. On its website, you can search the history of your hospital or compare hospitals regionally. While this doesn't put an end to the spread of staph infections, it should give you some peace of mind that your hospital is a safe environment in the event you are in need of medical attention.