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November 1, 2007
Re: MRSA Staph
Infection Information
Dear Wayne Trace
Parents:
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. Please
know that all district buildings are following guidelines from the Ohio
Department of Health regarding prevention of MRSA, including proper
cleaning of school facilities. We also are assisting ODH with education
efforts by sharing some of the agency’s answers to frequently asked
questions about MRSA:
What are typical
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 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
(clothing or towels) between skin and shared equipment.
- Wiping surfaces
of equipment before and after use.
We share your
concerns about the health and safety of our students. Please learn as
much as you can about MRSA, be aware of possible symptoms and seek
medical attention promptly if needed. For more specific information
about this infection, please visit the ODH web site at:
www.odh.ohio.gov.
Sincerely,
Mr. Gerber,
Superintendent
Wayne Trace Local Schools |
