Staphylococcus aureus (“staph”) are bacteria commonly found in the noses and on the skin of healthy people. Staph with resistance to the antibiotic methicillin (and other related antibiotics) are known as Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus or “MRSA.” Resistance means that a particular antibiotic will not work against those bacteria. MRSA may appear as:

• Sores that look and feel like insect bites• Red painful bumps under the skin• A cut that is swollen, hot and filled with pus• Red, warm, firm skin area that is painful and getting

larger (often on the legs)

Staph and MRSA can be spread when a person:• Has direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person• Touches surfaces that have staph on them from

someone else’s infection (ex. towels, athletic equipment, used bandages, etc.)

Note: Staph is not usually passed through the air. The school district has taken extra precautionary measures to disinfect and sanitize the facilities. In addition, you can help prevent the spread of MRSA by following good hygiene practices:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer

• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed

• Avoid contact with other person’s wounds and bandages• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors• Wipe surfaces of exercise equipment before and after

use. Early treatment of suspected MRSA is important. If you are concerned about a wound or sore on your athlete contact me, Rob and their parent immediately. If parents have other questions about MRSA, please have them consult their health care provider. Information regarding a student with a diagnosed or a suspected infectious condition should be reported to the school nurse as well as the athletic trainer (for athletes).