Download Common Skin Infections Seen in Athletics Impetigo

Common Skin Infections Seen in Athletics
Impetigo
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Impetigo is caused by two bacteria: staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus
pyogenes. These bacteria can enter any opening on the skin and cause infection
Characterized by red sores that may pop easily and leave a red spot with a yellow
crust.
If severe enough, either topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed.
Ringworm
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It is an infection caused by a fungus
It usually presents as red itchy patches, and the ‘ring’ is usually visible. It can spread
very easily to others and to other parts of your body. May develop blisters that will
ooze. Also, if you scratch the area, a staph infection may also present itself.
Doctor will prescribe an anti-fungal medication and the area must be cleaned
Cellulitis
 Common bacterial skin infection
 Appears first as a red swollen area usually found on arms or legs that feels hot to the
touch and can become very painful.
 Affects the surface of your skin, and if not treated it can spread to your lymph nodes
and bloodstream.
 Doctor should prescribe a round of oral antibiotics and it should start to disappear
within 10 days if not too severe.
MRSA
 MRSA infection is caused by staph bacteria that has become resistant to many
antibiotics that normally treat regular staph infections
 Usually start as swollen, painful red bumps that look like pimples. Area will most likely
be warm to the touch, full of pus, and usually accompanied with a fever. This bacteria
can burrow deep into the body which can cause potential dangerous infections of the
bones, joints, bloodstream, heart valves, and lungs
Things to Consider:
 Wash workout clothes daily, this includes: shorts, shirts, pants, socks,
undershirts, underwear, bras, etc.
 Do not share dirty clothes, towels, razors, or any other personal hygiene
products
 After showering, dry body completely and wear comfortable fitting
clothes
 If you suspect a skin infection, get it checked out. It must be covered
while at school. If your son/daughter has been told they need to see a
doctor for possible skin infection, take them as soon as possible. A
doctor’s note stating if they are allowed to participate in activity is
required for them to come back to the team activities.
 They can be held out of practice or competition if they are at risk of
spreading the infection to others.
 Wash your bedding often
 Do not continue to use the same towel repeatedly
 Wash with soap and water
 Clean your workout bench before and after use
Sources:
Mayoclinic.org
Healthline.com