MRSA
MRSA, or Methicillin Resistance Staphylococcus Aureus, is a strain of “staph” bacteria which causes skin and wound infections and has become resistant to antibiotics commonly used to treat the infection. Up to 30% of people are colonized with the bacteria, meaning that it is present on their skin or in their nose but is not causing active infection. However, for some, MRSA does not just “live” on their body, it can get into wounds or cracks in the skin and cause serious infections. In the school setting, MRSA is of particular concern because it is becoming increasingly more common, it is spread easily due to the frequent opportunity for close physical contact between students such as during athletics, it can be difficult to recognize and diagnose since the infection typically presents like other common skin infections and it is resistant to antibiotics. Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and ranges from basic wound care to IV antibiotics. Important measures must be taken to prevent the spread of MRSA in a school setting especially because in addition to spreading via direct physical contact, the bacteria can live on communal surfaces and objects.
MRSA Fact Sheet:
DHS - English Version
DHS - Spanish Version
DHS - Information and Prevention Tips
CDC - Cleaning and Disinfecting Instructions
CDC - MRSA Main Page
CDC - MRSA School Specific Guidance
Other Health Concerns in Schools Home Page
