Dell Rapids Public School News
12/14/2007
Health Information about Staph/MRSA
Staph infections, including Community-Acquired Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA), are becoming a frequent topic in the local and national news. Understandably, communities are concerned about the impact staph infections could have on their schools.
The Dell Rapids School District wants to share accurate information about this common skin infection and what we are doing to protect students and eliminate its possible spread.
Although news reports can be alarming, staph infections are common and in most cases, very treatable with antibiotics. Staph is among the most common causes of skin infections in the United States. A more serious strain of the bacteria is called Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) and is more difficult, but not impossible, to treat with antibiotics. Community-Acquired Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA) is a term used by health officials to describe the mode of transmission --- that MRSA can be acquired in community or public settings where close, personal contact occurs.
MRSA infections can occur in any person, at any age. Those who are immuno-compromised because of chronic illness or who spend extended time in a healthcare facility are considered at greater risk. Athletes also are susceptible because of physical contact during sports activities.
As a result, the Dell Rapids School District and Athletic Department are implementing the following guidelines. These guidelines are also endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control.
Guidelines for Staph and MRSA Prevention
- Showering and washing with soap and water immediately after practice, competition and training.
- Not sharing personal care items such as bars of soap, towels and razors, uniforms, and sports equipment that directly touch the body.
- Washing practice clothes, uniforms and other sports-related linens in hot water and laundry detergent. Using a hot dryer, rather than air drying, also helps kill bacteria.
- Notifying coaches and the school's nurse of any wounds that are potentially infected.
- Keeping all wounds clean and covered and avoiding contact with others' open wounds, or anything that could possibly be contaminated by infection (boils, blisters, etc).
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after practice, competition and training.
By everyone working together, we can effectively prevent and control the spread of serious antibiotic-resistant infections. We all share the same goal of trying to provide the safest possible environment for students.