Antibiotic-resistant bacteria on rise
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

Recent cases of staph infections that are resistant to antibiotics have caused state and local school officials to reexamine hygiene practices on campuses and to stress the importance of implementing preventive measures.

Methicillinresistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a particularly aggressive form of bacteria that tends to cause abscesses in otherwise intact skin and doesn't respond to standard antibiotics, according to an article published in VitalSigns, a UCLA Health Systems magazine.

Most staph infections are not serious and can be treated without antibiotics when they're caught early on, said school officials.

However, because of the potential for an MRSA outbreak in schools, especially among athletes, "we must remain vigilant to ensure our students stay healthy," said Dr. Gil Chavez, California Department of Public Health epidemiologist.

Infections caused by MRSA had previously been confined to hospitals, but "it is now out in the community and more people are getting infected," according to Dr. Charles Levin, medical director of the Ventura County Department of Public Health.

MRSA is usually transmitted via direct contact from one individual to another or through contaminated surfaces.

People should look for any sign of skin infection involving redness, swelling, pain and tenderness. Any break in the skin can attract the infection, said Levin. A wound should be kept clean with soap and water and covered with bandages until it heals.

"If symptoms get worse or the wound has pus, (the person) should go to the doctor right away," said Levin.

High school sports team members are more vulnerable to infections because kids have close contact with one another, Levin said. Locker rooms should be cleaned daily, and coaches should constantly remind students that hygiene practices are important.

"Although we're not overly concerned about an outbreak of staph, it's always sensible to understand its signs, symptoms and take all necessary precautions," said Jack O'Connell, state superintendent of public instruction, at a recent press conference.

"Good old hand washing is the No. 1 way to prevent the spread of infection," said Susan Van Ouwerkerk, health services specialist for Moorpark Unified School District.

To help prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria, MUSD installed sanitizing hand foam dispensers inside all classrooms last year, Van Ouwerkerk said.