Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has had a major impact on health care causing much anxiety and distress to patients and staff, and resulting in huge financial costs. It has been widely publicised by the media which in some cases has added to people's alarm. The screening, treatment and resultant isolation affects all aspects of the patient's care and will also influence the management of any wounds. MRSA has been isolated in both acute and chronic wounds and so the management of these must be included in any infection control policy.