Loss Prevention Hot Topics: Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

This Hot Topic 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, treatment for affected people should be sought immediately. You can find a complete list of information for schools at these links:

• Antibiotic Resistance (MRSA)
• MRSA in Schools
• Infections Put Administrators to the Test
• Preventing MRSA Infections (pdf)

Questions? Comments?

For questions concerning this hot topic, please contact your loss prevention consultant for immediate assistance.