The Facts About MRSA
By Tammy Schmidt
October 23, 2007
Recently, there has been an increased awareness of the bacteria methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus-MRSA (Mur-sa). MRSA is a staph infection that is resistant to many antibiotics and frequently causes skin infections. Common signs of a skin infection include redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness. Often MRSA infections will look like a spider bite, boil, abscess or turf burn. If it is left untreated, it could progress into a more serious illness. MRSA skin infections are generally spread by skin-to-skin contact or by direct contact with the infected wound drainage. They may also be spread by contact with contaminated surfaces or things such as sports equipment or personal hygiene items. MRSA skin infections are not spread through the air. The Center of Disease Control has recommended the following advice to help prevent the spread of MRSA and other infections or diseases:
*Wash your hands. Use soap and water or an alcohol-base hand sanitizer. Wash your hands for as long as it takes you to recite the alphabet.
*Cover cuts and scrapes with a clean bandage. This will help the wound heal. It will also prevent you from spreading bacteria to other people.
*Do not touch other people's wounds or bandages.
*Do not share personal items like towels or razors. If you use any shared gym equipment, wipe it down before and after you use it. Drying clothes, sheets, and towels in a dryer, rather than letting them air dry, helps kill bacteria.
USD 239 is aware of the impact the national concern for MRSA has on our community. We have re-evaluated our infection control measures and will continue to work diligently at cleaning and disinfecting all areas where students might have an opportunity to come into contact with the bacteria. It is our goal to keep the academic and athletic environment healthy for all of our students and staff. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact your school nurse, Tammy Schmidt.
