College Athletes and MRSA (AUDIO) Infectious Diseases Society of America Your browser does not support the audio element. Caption Athletes have long been identified as a high risk group for infection with the deadly superbug methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. A new study -- the first to observe college athletes who are not part of a specific MRSA outbreak -- found college athletes who play football, basketball and other contact sports are more likely to carry MRSA in their noses and throats than those who play non-contact sports such as golf and baseball. This puts them at higher risk for infection -- and for spreading the bug to others. Credit IDSA Usage Restrictions Please no reposting until November 8. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.