Parents, Oct 10, 2007
There has been alot in the media about growing numbers of students with
STAPH INFECTIONS (mostly in high schools). Some of these infections are
resistant to most antibiotics. Previously it was found nearly exclusively in
hospitals, but is now a growing problem in our communities. It is very
easily passed from one person to another. This is especially troublesome in
contact sports and school playgrounds.
The infection can present itself in many forms ranging from skin (boils,
rashes,cellulitis,ingrown hairs, bone, or blood, etc.
How to avoid staph infections:
-use alcohol-based hand sanitizers or soap(NOT ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP)and water
-launder clothing (especially sweaty athletic clothing and towels) in hot
water and dry them with a hot dryer
-sanitize surfaces after use as some bacteria can live for days on surfaces--
esp. gym equipment
-wear flip-flops in public showers
-if you have an open wound, clean it well and keep it covered with a bandage
that attaches to the skin on all sides
-do not ever share or borrow soap bars,towels,razors or any personal items
