Nationwide, alarms are going off as an outbreak of Staph infections are occurring in schools throughout the country. The issue gained spotlight on Monday with the death of a 17 year old student in Virginia died of a drug-resistant strain known as MRSA. Now it’s become local.
It seems no school is immune having had reported outbreaks in numerous DFW metro schools including Flower Mound High School, and Southlake Carroll High School. The exact number of cases has not been reported. Locker rooms are prime breeding grounds, especially since athletes have cuts, abrasions and nicks that are susceptible to the infection. It is important that students never share soap, towels, razors or other items, and in some cases, avoid using the showers altogether.
Staph (pronounced “staff”) is medical quick speak for staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This pesky little bacterium is very common (many people have some living on their skin all the time), but when it enters the human body, usually through an open cut or break in the skin, it can cause infection and trouble anywhere in the body. Staph infections tend to be pus-producing.
Staph infections are often found in crowded places and can simply rub off the skin of one person to another, or be transferred by sharing straws, drinks, or athletic equipment.
Many schools are beginning an improved education campaign and sanitization program, but many common sense recommendations are easily implemented.
- Frequently wash hands with liquid soap (not bar) and warm water.
- Keep fingernails clean and cut short.
- Avoid contact with other people’s wounds.
- Don’t share personal items.
- Clean and disinfect objects such as gym shorts and sports equipment before use.
- Wash in hot water .
For more information read the Dallas news article.
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