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Staph and MRSA Infections
Over the last few weeks Staph and MRSA infections have been reported in schools across the country. The Texas Department of State Health Services has released new guidelines to help prevent the spread of staphylococcal infections. This information is shared with you and our community to understand and prevent staph infections.
Staphylococcal bacteria, most often called “staph” are commonly occurring bacteria found on the skin and in the noses of all people. Most staphylococcal species never cause infection. However, when infection does occur due to staph, Staphylococcus aureus is usually the cause. When staph does cause infections, it may cause minor skin or soft tissue infections, such as boils or impetigo, which occur spontaneously without an obvious source of infection. Persons with staph skin infections may complain of “an infected pimple, “an insect bite”, a spider bite,” or “a sore”. Many staph infections cause minor redness and swelling without pain, and infected persons may not seek medical attention. However, staph infections can cause more serious-sometimes deadly-infections.
The single most effective way to prevent infection is proper and frequent hand washing. This is followed by keeping the facilities clean, keeping wounds covered, dressings disposed of properly, and eliminating the sharing of any equipment and personal items such as towels, brushes, etc.
Together we can help prevent the spread of staph. If you are interested in more information, you can go to www.mrsaTexas.org, or by calling (512)458-7676 and asking for information on staph.
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