What is Staph?
Staph (staphylococcus aureus) is a type of bacteria. It may cause skin infections that look like pimples or boils. Staph infections may be red, swollen, painful, have a similar appearance to spider bite or have pus (or other fluid type) drainage.
What is MRSA?
MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) is a type of staph infection that is resistant to certain antibiotics thus making it harder to treat.
Who can get Staph and MRSA?
- Anyone can get staph or MRSA. The likelihood of infection is increased if they have:
- Skin to skin contact with someone who has a staph infection.
- Contact with items and surfaces that have staph on them.
- Openings in skin (i.e. cuts, scrapes, turf burns).
- Poor hygiene.
How are staph infections and MRSA infections treated?
Treatment for staph infections and MRSA infections may include taking antibiotics or having a doctor drain the infection. If you are given an antibiotic, be sure to take entire prescription dosage.
How do you keep staph infections from spreading?
- Wash your hands often or use alcohol based sanitizer.
- Keep your cuts and scrapes clean and covered with bandages.
- Do not share personal items like towels or clothing.
- Keep practice and game clothing clean.
- Shower after every practice and game.
- Do not tough other people’s cuts or bandag
What should to do if you think you may have a skin infection?
Please report it immediately to your athletic trainer, school nurse, parents, or coach.