Common Sense Health Practices Remove MRSA Risks

Schoolchildren in several states recently died from infections caused by a "superbug" bacterium. As recently as November, a bus monitor was diagnosed with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, otherwise know as MRSA, a transferable infection with adapted immunities to common antibiotics. The news of the bus monitor's diagnosis was responded to quickly and effectively by the school district. Simple preventative measures will alleviate the potential of MRSA outbreaks in schools. Outbreaks that can lead to panic.

The MRSA deaths of schoolchildren push issues of cleanliness in schools and on buses for the front of the issue. News media and parent and child pressure has forced some districts to react by closing down schools for weeks at a time. These responses are often reviewed as an overreaction to the media hype or jumpy school officials anxious to appease parents as quickly as possible. School closures and efforts to scrub and disinfect are geared more to alleviate parent anxiety than remove the risk of infection.

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association an estimated 18,650 Americans died from MRSA in 2005. 77 percent of the deaths were of individuals 65 and older. Most often found in hospitals, the recent rush of MRSA cases is due to improved monitoring methods and the infection's continued adaptations against common antibiotics. In the event a student contracts MRSA the local news media often overreacts, playing on fears of a destructive pandemic. Schools and school bus drivers can react rationally and effectively to prevent the spread of any "superbugs" with the use of common health practices.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, recommends good hygiene habits that will aid in avoiding MRSA and other transferable infections include, washing hands with soap and water frequently. Athletes are particularly at risk and are encouraged to shower and wash with soap after all practices and competitions. Keep any cuts and abrasions clean and properly dressed until healed.

MRSA cases occur more frequently with athletes due to damp locker rooms. The CDC recommends athletes to not share towels and not let damp, dirty clothes or belongings remain in locker rooms. Dark and damp surroundings are the strongest breeding grounds for infectious bacteria, which is information that should put bus drivers at ease. According to the Mayo Clinic "Superbug" prevention requires a few simple steps on the school bus.

In the event of a contamination, the Pupil Transportation Safety Institute (PTSI), Syracuse, NY, recommends wiping the bus interiors with a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part chlorine bleach. The institute also recommends adding disinfectant gel dispensers to all drivers' areas.

A one-time complete sanitation is not sufficient, as students will be back on the bus and in schools the next day. Consistent health awareness is the long-term key.