News and
Information about MRSA
While NO cases
of MRSA reported in the Port Jervis School District or in the
surrounding area, district officials are taking a
proactive approach to ensure the health of students and staff.
The illness
MRSA is a type of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria normally
carried on the skin and in the nose of healthy people. Some
staph bacteria are resistant to the class of antibiotics usually
used to treat staph infections, such as methicillin, and are
referred to as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. If a
diagnosis of MRSA is made, the infection is treated with a
different antibiotic.
How is it spread?
Health officials
say MRSA is almost always spread by direct physical contact, not
through the air. While MRSA infections are generally associated
with hospitals, cases of the Community Associated MRSA are being
reported in school districts in upstate New York, Long Island,
and most recently Orange County. Most of the cases of skin
infections caused by the Community Associated MRSA have involved
student athletes (although some non-athletes have been affected
as well).
Symptoms
This infection commonly causes boils and soft tissue infection.
The symptoms may include redness, areas warm to the touch, pain,
drainage, discomfort, and swelling. If your child is displaying
any of these symptoms or if you have concerns about your child’s
health, please contact your family physician. It is very
important to report a diagnosed or suspected infectious
condition to the school nurse, and/or coach (if an athlete), as
soon as possible. As always, health information is kept strictly
confidential.
Preventing the spread
of MRSA
Steps to help avoid an MRSA infection include:
• Washing
hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using any
sports facilities.
• Avoid
sharing personal items such as towels, razors, clothing, or
athletic equipment.
•
Non-washable gear should be wiped down with alcohol wipes after
each use.
•
Anyone who participates in close contact
sports should shower immediately after practices
and competitions.
•
Any cut or break in the skin should be
washed with soap and water, and covered with
a clean, dry dressing applied.
•
Report any suspicious skin sore or boil to
the school nurse or family physician immediately.
Additional Resources
•
Questions and Answers about MRSA in
schools
•
Orange-Ulster BOCES Fact Sheet
•
New York State Department of Health Fact
Sheet
•
Athlete's Guide to prevent spread of MRSA
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