Staph Infection Information
Dear Garland ISD families,
You may have seen or heard recent media coverage regarding the increase of Staph infections. Staphylococcus aureus or Staph is a common germ that many people carry in their nasal passages or on their skin with no ill effects. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of Staph that has developed a resistance to many antibiotics that kill bacteria. Healthcare providers in the community are on increased alert for this particular infection.
Symptoms of an MRSA infection include redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness of the skin, and boils or blisters. MRSA infections are often misdiagnosed as spider bites.
Because this a growing concern world-wide, the Garland ISD would like to share the attached information with your family as part of a community education initiative. The information is provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
The following precautions are important to prevent skin infections:
- Encourage frequent hand washing with soap and water.
- Keep fingernails clean and clipped short.
- Avoid contact with other people’s wounds or anything contaminated by a wound.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as razors, towels, deodorant, or bar soap.
- Clean and disinfect objects (such as gym and sports equipment) before use.
- Wash dirty clothes, linens, and towels with hot water and laundry detergent.
- Encourage students who participate in sports to shower immediately after each practice, game, or match.
- Keep open or draining sores and lesions clean and covered. Anyone assisting with wound care should wear gloves and wash their hands with soap and water after dressing changes.
You are encouraged to be vigilant in looking for signs and symptoms of staph infections. If any family members exhibit symptoms, please contact your private physician and school nurse. It is very important that the physician culture any wounds so that a correct diagnosis can be made.
Thank you for your attention to this important information.
Maggie Willis
Director of Health Services
Garland ISD