MRSA Facts

Recent reports in the news about MRSA staph infections have raised many concerns and questions by parents. The reasons why there are increased cases of this particular type of infection are not clear. But what is known are some ways to protect ourselves from this and other skin infections.

Between 25% and 30% of the population carry some form of staph bacteria either on their skin or in their nose. They do not become sick with the bacteria themselves, but can spread it to others by skin contact or by touching surfaces others come in contact with. Most staph infections (impetigo, boils, cellulitis) are diagnosed by a doctor and treated with antibiotics. The MRSA type of staph bacteria can only be diagnosed by culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing by the doctor, who then will prescribe a stronger type of antibiotic to treat the infection. In all cases of staph infection, it is very important to follow the doctor’s directions carefully and to finish all the antibiotics prescribed.

The best way to prevent staph infections of any kind is to wash hands frequently with soap and running water and to keep hands away from the nose. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work well if soap and water aren’t available.

Others ways to prevent staph infections include:

	Regular bathing
	Clean all skin wounds with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment and bandage, and change bandages daily until healed.
	Don’t share personal items with others, (i.e., drinking cups, lip gloss, washcloths)
	Launder clothes, sheets, and towels with detergent and dry in a hot dryer.

For more information, contact your doctor, the local health department, or go to http://www.cdc.gov/Features/MRSAinSchools/.

Wendy Kennedy, RN
School Nurse

Although NO cases have been reported at WUHS or ACE, please read this important alert regarding MRSA (methicillin-resistant staph aureus) staph infections!! Also, check out the California Department of Public Health's Parent's Guide to MRSA.