Re: MRSA Outbreak In Gloucester City Public Schools From Dr. Mary Stansky, school superintendent
Dear Parents,
Recently there have been several outbreaks of MRSA - Methicillin - resistant staphylococcus aureus, throughout the tri-county region. In the past, MRSA occurred in hospitals and nursing homes, but it is becoming more common in community settings, such as schools and daycare centers. A number of students in Gloucester City Schools have been diagnosed with a confirmed case of MRSA.
Exposed wounds and other skin sites as well as nasal secretions are important reservoirs of staph aureus, bacteria. Often referred to as "staph', it is commonly found on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Please note that only a very small percentage of staph infections are actually MRSA.
Normal treatment is with an antibiotic for the individual having a MRSA infection. IT IS NOT NECESSARY FOR PERSONS EXPOSED TO SOMEONE WITH A STAPH INFECTION TO BE ON AN ANTIBIOTIC. It cannot be spread through the air. Staph aureus transmission can be reduced most effectively by meticulous hand washing before and after contact.
If a student has MRSA (methicillin resistant staph aureus), more stringent infection control measures must be taken such as: limited body contact, wounds covered, prohibiting students from sharing personal items, wipe down and let dry any surface (example desks, books, etc.) with a 10% bleach solution or with Lysol, using disposable gloves, laundering soiled clothing immediately and (again) meticulous hand washing. Confirmed cases of MRSA usually require treatment with antibiotics, which only a licensed physician can prescribe. These procedures will assist in a speedy recovery and limit the spread of infection to other people.
The district has taken every precaution to limit and contain the infection. All surfaces have been disinfected and will continue to be disinfected. Parents should encourage their family members to follow all of the control measures, in order to help limit their exposure. If a student becomes infected, please notify the school nurse immediately. She will be able to assist in containment. If infection is in doubt, please seek medical attention immediately. Your cooperation in this matter will assure the continued health and safety of our students.
