MRSA Staph Infection Information

Many parents are concerned about recent news accounts concerning methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a type of "staph" infection that frequently causes skin infections and can be difficult to treat. Because of this concern, we have received general information from the Cuyahoga County Board of Health and the Ohio Department of Health to help educate parents and students on MRSA and provide answers to common questions. We are assisting with education efforts by sharing answers to frequently asked questions about MRSA:

What are common symptoms of MRSA?

Common signs of a skin infection include redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness. Often a MRSA infection will look like a spider bite, boil, abscess or pimple. If left untreated, it could progress into a more serious illness.

How is MRSA spread?

In outbreak situations, the environment has not played a significant role in the transmission of MRSA. Studies in health care and community settings show skin-to-skin contact, direct contact with infected wound drainage or contact with contaminated surfaces or things such as sports equipment as the likely sources of transmission. MRSA skin infections are not spread through the air.

How can students protect themselves?

Students can protect themselves from infections by:

• Practicing good hygiene (e.g., keeping their hands clean by washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rubs, and showering after games and practices);
• Covering any open skin areas such as abrasions or cuts with clean dry bandages; avoiding sharing personal items such as towels or razors;
• Using barriers (e.g., clothing or towels) between skin and shared equipment; and
• Wiping surfaces of equipment before and after use.

For more information about this infection, please visit the Cuyahoga County Board of Health website at: www.ccbh.net or visit the Ohio Department of Health website at: www.odh.ohio.gov. If you have any questions, please contact your doctor or the Cuyahoga County Board of Health at 216-201-2080.

Sincerely,

Deacon John Gregory

Principal