MRSA Information from Health Services
The infection known as MRSA (pronounced “mursa”) is receiving a lot of media attention. In an effort to aid in the prevention of MRSA, the following information is offered:
1. What is MRSA?
Most MRSA infections are skin infections that may appear as pustules or boils which are often red, swollen, painful or have pus or other drainage. Almost all MRSA skin infections can be effectively treated with or without antibiotics. More serious bloodstream infections are very rare in healthy people.
2. How is MRSA transmitted?
MRSA is usually transmitted by skin to skin contact or contact with shared items or surfaces that have come into contact with someone else’s infection.
3. What precautions help prevent transmission of MRSA?
Practicing good hygiene including: Hand washing with soap and water or using an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
Frequent bathing, e.g.: everyday for children at the secondary level and every one to two days in the elementary grades, especially after participation in a sport. Parents should inspect their young children, and remind their teens to check themselves.
Covering cuts or abrasions on the skin with a clean, dry bandage until healed.
Avoid sharing personal items that come into contact with your bare skin.
Seek medical care for any suspicious looking rashes.
The district has a policy in place that addresses cleaning and disinfecting of athletic equipment.
If you have any concerns, please feel free to call Susan Sherlock, Coordinator of Health Services at 620-2016.
