MENANDS SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dear Families, October 24, 2007
As you know, there is concern about the increasing numbers of students in area schools who are contracting MRSA – methicillan resistant staphylococcus aureus. At Menands School, we are taking several steps that will contribute to the health and well being of our students and staff. Fortunately, the measures that we are taking related to the prevention of MSRA will also help to prevent the spread of other health problems, including colds, strep, and the flu.
We are also providing families with this Question and Answer Information Sheet so that home and school can be reinforcing the same positive health habits among our children.
What is MRSA?
MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to typical antibiotics. MRSA is a form of staph infection that is more commonly found in people who have been hospitalized or who are living in nursing homes.
Who gets staph or MRSA?
Anyone can get a staph infection, including MRSA, although it is far less common to occur among healthy individuals than among people who have weakened immune systems.
How is MRSA transmitted?
The bacteria is typically spread through direct contact with another person who is infected.
What are the symptoms of MRSA?
The MRSA that students in area schools have contracted usually appears as a skin infection that looks like a pimple or a boil. The infection may appear red, swollen, or have pus or other drainage.
How is MRSA treated? If my child has MRSA, can he or she attend school?
MRSA is treated by a physician using less common forms of antibiotics. Once a child is treated by a physician, he or she can return to school.
How is MRSA prevented?
MRSA and other staph infections are prevented through thorough hand washing before eating and after using the bathroom; keeping cuts covered with bandages; and by NOT sharing personal items such as combs, food, water bottles, and Chapstick.
What steps are being taken at Menands to prevent MRSA?
At all grade levels, we are undertaking a preventive health education program that reinforces the following good health habits: washing hands before eating and after using the bathroom; keeping cuts covered; and NOT sharing personal items. We are also rearranging schedules so that all students are expected to wash hands before going into the cafeteria for lunch. Additionally, the custodians are adding extra cleanings of desk tops, table tops, door knobs, and water fountains to their regular cleaning schedule.
How can I learn more about MRSA?
The following websites contain helpful information: www.cdc.gov and www.health.state.ny.us
We appreciate your follow through at home.
Kathy Meany Barbara Weidman
Superintendent School Nurse