How Does the MRSA Bug Affect Your Family?

We've all had bacterial infections before. We have a sore throat, a cough, runny nose or a sore that won't heal. After a quick inspection by the doctor, a prescription is given for a cure-the amazing antibiotic! Well, there are some amazing bacteria present in our environment that no antibiotic can cure. One of these bacteria with no cure is called the MRSA or Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus bug. This bug is one member of the very large "staph" bacteria.

There was a recent outbreak of this robust infection in a Virginia public school district. The Prince William County High School in Virginia was closed due to a case of MRSA. A student had been confirmed to have this infection and there fore the entire school was closed to allow for the necessary disinfecting of the building and all materials inside.

The students were all sent home with a letter of concern with explanations of the infection to the parents. This bacterial infection is usually contained to health centers such as nursing homes and other places of care.

The first symptoms may appear as general ill feelings. In many cases there are also skin infections present. The infections may appear as pimples, sores or boils. If these skin infections are open the bacteria can be spread very easily. The high contamination levels of these bacteria are part of why it is so dangerous. The fact that it is not able to be controlled by antibiotics is the most alarming part of the disease.

Having good hygiene is extremely important when you are aware of an outbreak like this. Some simple good hygiene practices include the following. Always wash your hands after being in a public place. Use hot water and enough soap to get a complete lather over all the area of your hands. Scrub under your nails and under and around any rings or other jewelry near your hands.

Using alcohol based hand sanitizer is also an excellent measure, but be sure to wash your hands thoroughly at the next convenience you have.

You also need to cover all wounds effectively. If you have an open wound or sore be sure to apply antibiotic ointment and place a protective bandage or other would cover over the area. This will keep the wound clean and free of foreign materials or any bacteria that may be present in your surroundings.

It is also very important to avoid sharing personal hygiene items. Avoid the use of another's razor, towel, toothbrush, etc. Never touch another person's wounds or used bandages. The bacteria can hide and survive in a wound covering for several hours after being removed.

One last effort to keep yourself safe is to be sure you are healthy and eating a balanced diet. Your body can naturally fight off many viruses and bacteria as long as you are healthy and have a strong immune system. If you feel ill, stay home and allow your body to rest and heal before going into the public where you may encounter an antibiotic resistant bacterium such as this Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA).

Source: The Emergency Email and Wireless Network
http://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=251&z=1