WHAT IS MRSA?

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of staph infection that is resistant to some antibiotics. Historically, it has been associated with ill persons in health-care institutions but recently has emerged as a common cause of skin and soft tissue infections in previously healthy adults and children. Most infections caused by staph are skin infections such as pimples or boils but more serious infections can also cause pneumonia and infections of the blood and joints. Outbreaks of MSRA have occurred among athletes, especially participants in contact sports where participants are prone to skin abrasions.

WHAT TO DO TO PREVENT MSRA

• Keep hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or

• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed.

• Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or bandages.

• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

• What should be done if a student has MRSA?

• Follow instructions of Health Care Provider

• Notify the school

• Keep skin infections covered with a clean, dry dressing.

• Be diligent in washing hands with soap and warm water

• uniforms, skin balms, razors, or sports equipment

• Do not share personal items such as athletic clothing, towels,

• and laundry detergent

• Launder all uniforms and clothes worn in practice with warm water

• athletic contests that would increase the likelihood of further

• infection.

• Ensure student does not participate in physical education or practice

• using an alcohol-based hand gel.