Antibiotic-resistant skin infections that were once common to health-care institutions are now emerging as common causes of skin infections in schools around the country. There have been several reported clusters of skin and soft tissue infections associated with methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) among participants in close-contact sports, such as wrestling and football, in colleges and high schools across the country.

Possible risk factors for infection include physical contact, skin damage, sharing of equipment or clothing. This contagious infection, MRSA, while usually mild, can, in some cases, result in serious blood and bone infection.

Although there have been no reported cases in Shaker Heights, it is important that members of the school community protect themselves against MRSA. The risk is greatest among participants in close-contact sports such as football and wrestling.

The School District is using disinfectant cleaning products recommended by the Centers for Disease Control to help control the spread of MRSA.

Here are some preventive measures that everyone can take:

• Wash hands and body thoroughly and regularly with soap and water.
• Keep clothes and athletic equipment clean.
• Do not share towels, razors, or other personal items that touch your skin directly.
• Wash cuts and scrapes and keep them covered with bandages.
• See a doctor or nurse about any skin infection.

Following are additional resources:

Centers for Disease Control Web Page on MRSA in Schools

CDC Fact Sheet on Staph Infections

Information for Athletes

Cuyahoga County Health Department MRSA Page

Site Map  |   November 15, 2007