MRSA Guidelines

There has obviously been some just concern over the emergence of community acquired methicillin-resistant staphylococcus infection (MRSA).  This message will hopefully raise the awareness for athletes, parents, and the community about the proper pre-cautions, prevention, and treatment for Staph and MRSA infections.  Staph or MRSA infections usually manifest as skin infections, such as pimples, pustules and boils, which present red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage.  They can also develop from improper care of skin lesions and wounds.

Athletes must report all injuries and open wounds (cuts, abrasion, or any unusual skin rashes), no matter how minor, to the Athletic Trainer immediately for evaluation and treatment.  Athletes must inform Athletic Trainer for all active skin lesions, especially lesions that do not respond to initial treatment.  All skin lesions must be evaluated and treated everyday until wound is completely healed.  Athletes must care and cover all skin lesions appropriately before participation.  This will protect other athletes from contact with the wound. 

Athletes should maintain good hygiene and avoid contact with drainage from skin lesions for prevention.  Good hygiene is especially important to prevent any infection or MRSA.  Some recommendations are keeping hands clean, immediate showers following activity, avoid sharing towels, razors, and daily athletic gear, and properly wash athletic gear and towels after each use. 

Proper wound care should begin with thoroughly cleaning wounds by washing away debris without traumatizing fragile tissue.  Then, use anti-bacterial cream and sterile wound dressings to inhibit the growth and spread of bacteria plus reduce the potential for infection.  Ideally, wounds should be cleaned and dressed two to three times a day.  If a wound looks suspicious, is not healing properly, or has signs of an infection, then the athlete will most likely need to be referred to the appropriate physician for testing and treatment.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call me or email me anytime.

Brian Bernasconi, MS, ATC

Certified Athletic Trainer

Clarkstown South High School

31 Demarest Mill Road

West Nyack, NY 10994

Office: 624-3483

Cell: 222-7913

Fax: 624-2640

Email:  bbernasc@ccsd.edu