Pasadena ISD is constantly taking proactive measures to prevent outbreaks of staph infections. An antibiotic-resistant and particularly virulent strain of staph infection (MRSA: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is currently spreading around the nation – primarily in hospitals. It can be passed easily via skin-to-skin contact, as well as by skin contact with surfaces previously contacted by an infected person.

Every day, at the district’s central laundry facilities, all physical education and athletic laundry is washed in a detergent that is effective in killing the germs that cause staph. In addition, trainers and coaches throughout the district make sure dressing rooms, showers, lockers and weight rooms are cleaned with a broad spectrum disinfectant that kills bacterial, fungal and viral contaminants.

Pasadena ISD district trainer John Schmitz is in regular contact with school trainers reminding them of safety concerns such as heat/heat index, lightening and the spread of infectious diseases. The district believes that it requires a team effort between school nurses, trainers and coaches to keep a handle on these issues.

Health and school officials stress that the number one tool against staph infections is awareness. Please note and take the following precautions for yourselves and children:

* Wash your hands frequently. Use soap and water or an alcohol-base hand sanitizer. Experts suggest that you wash your hands for as long as it takes you to recite the alphabet.
* Cover cuts and scrapes with a clean bandage. This will help the wound heal. It will also prevent you from spreading bacteria to other people as well as prevent a ready opening for the introduction of germs.
* Do not touch other people's wounds or bandages.
* Do not share personal items like towels or razors. If you use any shared gym equipment, wipe it down before and after you use it. Drying clothes, sheets, and towels in a dryer -- rather than letting them air dry -- helps kill bacteria.

For more information, go to the Texas Department of State Health Services web site.

Additional Information/Resources:

http://www.dshs.sta te.tx.us/idcu/health/antibioticre">http://www.dshs.s tate.tx.us/idcu/health/antibioticres istance/mrsa/Prevention.pdf

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/health/ant ibioticres istance/mrsa/picpage.asp (Warning: very graphic pictures)