Dr. Carlos Cano, Interim Director of the Department of Health (DOH), urged DC residents to do their part in taking basic steps to prevent the spread of skin infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in DC schools, hospitals and homes.
While MRSA has made headlines recently, it is not uncommon. The difference between MRSA and other more common types of Staph infections is that MRSA has to be treated with different antibiotics than those typically used for most Staph infections.
The Department of Health has sent detailed information from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to every DC Public and Public Charter School with specific information regarding prevention and treatment of infections caused by MRSA, the Department of Health has also established clear procedures for schools to communicate directly with the DOH Division of Disease Surveillance and Investigation (DDSI) for prompt investigation of suspected cases.
In addition, the Department of Health has been in close consultation with its MRSA advisory committee, which is made up of health care providers, infection control practitioners and expert epidemiologists and can best help identify how to prevent MRSA and track any cases.
“The Department of Health is mobilizing to educate schools, parents and the public about ways to reduce the risk of contracting a MRSA-related infections,” Dr. Cano said. “While the increase in community-acquired MRSA infections is part of a national trend, we will be taking extra steps to ensure that the District of Columbia is as risk-free as possible. I am personally asking families to think about what they can do to protect themselves. The steps they can take are common sense and easy to do.”
Based on CDC reports, some of the most effective preventive measures are basic cleanliness and keeping skin wounds covered. The DC Department of Health strongly recommends the following health precautions for individuals concerned about MRSA exposure:
* Frequently wash hands with soap and running water for at least 15 seconds, especially after using the bathroom or treating wounds
* Keep your open wounds covered with clean, dry bandages
* Do not touch other people's cuts or bandages
* Refrain from sharing personal items like towels or razors
* Clean shared items such as athletic equipment regularly
* Consult your primary care provider if a skin lesion or wound does not heal properly
Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as “Staph,” are bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Most of the time these bacteria do not cause a problem but Staph can enter the body through breaks in the skin and cause an infection. Most of skin infections are minor (such as pimples and boils) and can be treated without antibiotics. Skin infections can appear red, swollen, painful and may have pus or other drainage. However, Staph bacteria also can cause serious infections (e.g., pneumonia) when they enter the bloodstream.) Some Staph bacteria such as MRSA have become resistant to common antibiotics and thus may be more difficult to treat.
Individuals with concerns about MRSA and Staph infections are encouraged to contact the DOH call center at (202) 671-5000 or talk to their health care provider. Select Staph infection for additional information, including frequently asked questions about MRSA.
If you are facing MRSA infection in your household, or if you are simply concerned and want to take preventative action, we have the products and advice you need.
