Common sense precautions help prevent spread of MRSA
Regular district cleaning procedures include products that kill staph germs
October 24, 2007
There has been significant coverage in the news recently about MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus), and while Andover Public Schools has no confirmed cases at this time, it's important to let you know what is being done to help prevent the spread of this infection in our schools.
MRSA is an infection caused by staph bacteria. Staph bacteria are “found normally on the skin or in the nose of about 1/3 of the population.” These people are not sick, but are said to be “colonized” with MRSA. Although they are not ill, they can still pass the germ to others. These staph (MRSA) germs are “resistant” to penicillin-type antibiotics.
The regular cleaning practices of our custodial staff include products that kill staph germs, and the staff works diligently to always make sure the schools are clean, safe environments for our students.
Skin infections such as boils, impetigo, and infected hair roots are caused by staph. The best way to prevent skin infections is simply to wash your hands. It is spread by skin-to-skin contact and starts when bacteria get into a cut or scrape. Call your physician if you have signs of infection, such as pain, redness, swelling and heat, and oozing of pus or blood. Infected areas often resemble spider bites, and should be treated quickly so they don’t spread or cause more serious problems. Also, make sure you notify your doctor if new symptoms develop during or after you get treated. Mayo Clinic posted these tips for protecting yourself from Community Acquired - MRSA:
Protecting yourself from CA-MRSA — which might be just about anywhere — may seem daunting, but these common-sense precautions can help reduce your risk:
§ Keep personal items personal. Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, sheets, razors, clothing and athletic equipment. MRSA spreads on contaminated objects as well as through direct contact.
§ Keep wounds covered. Keep cuts and abrasions clean and covered with sterile, dry bandages until they heal. The pus from infected sores often contains MRSA, and keeping wounds covered will help keep the bacteria from spreading. Wash cuts, scrapes, and sores with soap and water then keep them clean and dry.
§ Sanitize linens.If you have a cut or sore, wash towels and bed linens in hot water with added bleach and dry them in a hot dryer. Wash gym and athletic clothes after each wearing.
§ Wash your hands. In or out of the hospital, careful hand washing remains your best defense against germs. Scrub hands briskly for at least 15 seconds, then dry them with a disposable towel and use another towel to turn off the faucet. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer containing at least 62 percent alcohol for times when you don't have access to soap and water.
§ Get tested.If you have a skin infection that requires treatment, ask your doctor if you should be tested for MRSA. Many doctors prescribe drugs that aren't effective against antibiotic-resistant staph, which delays treatment and creates more resistant germs.
For more information, log onto http://www. mayoclinic.com/health/mrsa/DS00735
Remember to finish your whole bottle of antibiotics – the last few pills kill the toughest germs. It is the overuse of antibiotics (taking them when they are not needed) that creates the stronger germs, like MRSA. Do not use antibiotics as a preventative measure.
If you have questions or concerns about MRSA, please contact your family physician. If you have questions or concerns that relate to the school, please contact the principal or nurse at your child’s school.
