Is MRSA covered Under Workers' Compensation Law?

Let's say you have a work-related back injury that requires surgery. You go to the hospital to get better – or so you thought. Each year, thousands of Americans go to the hospital and return with a life-threatening infection called MRSA.

MRSA, which stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, is a staph infection that is spread by skin-to-skin contact. Unlike most staph infections, MRSA is often resistant to first-line (common and less expensive) antibiotics. MRSA infections are frequently caused by exposure to staph bacteria in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings. Doctors, nurses, and visitors can easily spread staph germs to patients.

For people in good health, staph infections are usually harmless. The people who are at a greater risk of infection are older individuals or those with weakened immune systems. This includes employees who need surgery after work-related injuries. Most MRSA infections start out as small, red bumps on the skin that resemble acne or insect bites. Those bumps can quickly turn into deep, painful wounds that require medical attention. Once the staph germ enters your body, it can spread to the bones, joints, blood, and key organs like the lungs and heart.

If you are hurt at work in New Jersey, you are eligible for workers' compensation benefits. These benefits may provide fully paid medical care, wage compensation, or a cash settlement for your injuries. This is also true if your work injury leads to a MRSA infection. The MRSA becomes a compensable part of your claim, meaning you are entitled to benefits for it.

However, it's unlikely that you'll receive that compensation without a fight. Because staff germs are found everywhere, your employer's insurance company may argue that your infection is not work-related. It's a good idea to hire a workers' compensation lawyer to help you protect your rights and get the benefits you deserve.