There is a case at my sons' elementary school too. We got a letter informing us yesterday. It is scary but I do wonder if this isn't something that has always been around and is just getting heavy publicity right now. How worried should I be???
Back to back posts merged. The following information has been added:
I'm going to post the letter that we received because it has some good information about what the infection is, what to watch for, and how to protect yourself. It mentions the school's name which was televised on the news but no individual students so I feel safe posting this. Here it is ->
October 25, 2007
Dear Parents:
Many parents are concerned about recent news accounts concerning methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a type of “staph” infection that can cause skin infections that may be difficult to treat. Here at Hilliard Crossing Elementary we have one isolated case. Our school nurse, Mrs. Stoner has been in contact with the appropriate Department of Health personnel. Please know that all district buildings are following guidelines from the Ohio Department of Health regarding prevention of MRSA. Subsequently, 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 the 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; not sharing personal items such as towels, razors, deodorant, bars of soap, ointments, water bottles or drink cups;
• Using barriers (e.g., clothing or towels) between skin and shared equipment;
• If they have open wounds, NOT using whirlpools, hydrotherapy pools, cold tubs, swimming pools and other common tubs;
• Wiping surfaces of equipment before and after use; and
• Getting tested if they think they may have MRSA.
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 Ohio Department of Health’s Web site at:
www.odh.ohio.gov.
