Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

by Ashley Purcella

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, better known as MRSA, has been in the news recently, and Texas schools have more questions than answers on what it is and how to best prevent infections. This article will try to answer some common questions about MRSA and outline prevention best practices.

MRSA is antibiotic resistant bacteria causing infections that commonly occur at sites of visible skin trauma such as cuts and abrasions and can occur anywhere on the body. There are many types of infections caused by MRSA ranging from simple skin infections such as pimples, boils and furuncles to septicemia and toxic shock syndrome, which are infections of the blood stream.

MRSA grows rapidly in warm, moist areas such as athletic facilities, bathrooms, laundry areas, and showers. School facilities and athletic departments should follow these simple guidelines created by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

• Cover your wounds
• Clean hands frequently with soap and water
• Do not share personal items
• Maintain a clean environment by establishing cleaning procedures for common areas
• Athletes should shower immediately after participating in exercise

MRSA can be avoided by simply practicing good hygiene and covering open wounds with clean, dry bandages until healed. If the disease is suspected at your school, have the person see their doctor immediately. You can find a complete list of information for schools on the CDC Web site at: http://www.cdc.gov/Features/MRSAinSchools/