MRSA Skin Infection
Positive Case Reported to SHS
by Kerri Johnson
May 12, 2008
It has been brought to our attention at Seneca Township High School that a confirmed case of MRSA has been identified and the infected person is presently under the care of a physician. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus is a type of bacterial “staph” infection that most commonly affects the skin. It is spread by contact with contaminated hands, infected wound and nasal secretions, and contaminated objects and surfaces.
MRSA and other “staph” infections can be easily prevented by the following:
- Washing hands frequently using soap & water or hand sanitizer.
- Showering with soap after athletic practices and competitions.
- Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage.
- Do not share personal care/hygiene items with others.
- Washing uniforms or clothing used in athletics daily.
Students with suspicious skin lesions including pustules that aren’t acne, open or weeping wounds, and lesions that resemble “bug bites” should report to the school nurse or their athletic coach before participating in practice or competition.
SHS is handling the matter in accordance with the Department of Public Health's guidelines and under the advisement of the LaSalle County Health Department. For more information click on the following links to the Illinois Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_in_schools.html#5
http://www.idphstate.il.us/public/hb/hbmrsa.htm
http://www.idph.state.il.us/health/infect/hygiene.htm
