Download What is MRSA (Methycillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)

WHAT IS M.R.S.A.?
Methicillin Resistant Stahpylococcus Aureus
What is MRSA (Methycillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus)? In
layman’s words – it is a bacteria found in human noses and mouths, on human
hands and on many surfaces in our environment that when given entry into an
open wound causes a serious infection because the bacteria is resistant to many
antibiotics. MRSA may live as long as 7 months on inanimate surfaces.
How can I get MRSA?
 By touching someone’s MRSA infected skin.
 Through touching surfaces that have MRSA on them.
 Sharing MRSA infected sports equipment.
 Sharing personal hygiene items such as towels, clothing, soap, dishes,
silverware, cups, water bottles, etc.
 Having someone cough or sneeze into or over a break in your skin.
How can I prevent myself from getting MRSA?
 Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands!!! The number one
way to prevent the spread of any infectious disease is to wash your hands
frequently or use a >60% alcohol based hand sanitizer.
 Use good respiratory etiquette – cover your mouth and nose during
coughing or sneezing you’re your arm (the crook of your elbow – not your
hands).

Shower after physical activity and wash sweaty clothes daily.
 Avoid contact with other people’s wounds, body fluids. REMEMBER – if
it’s wet and it’s not yours, don’t touch it!!! If you do touch something wet
– wash your hands.
 Use gloves or barriers to provide first aid. Cover all open wounds with a
bandaid or clean, dry dressing.
 Clean PE equipment/mats daily with diluted bleach solution.
And finally, report any wounds or skin breaks to the school nurse. Get treated
with appropriate first aid. If your wound turns red, swells, looks like a boil or is
oozing anything other than clear drainage – be seen by a healthcare
professional.