Avoiding Bacterial (Staph) “Superbugs”

Recently the news media has reported on potentially deadly infections from a drug-resistant staph called “superbugs.” This potentially dangerous drug-resistant germ is called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA. The staph infection sometimes first appears on the skin as a red, swollen pimple or boil that may be painful or have pus. It can be spread by close skin-to skin contact or by touching surfaces contaminated with the germ. Good hygiene is the best way to avoid infection from this dangerous bacteria.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises:

• Keep your hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed.
• Avoid contact with other people's wounds or bandages.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels or razors.

For additional information visit: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dhqp/ar_mrsa_ca.html

Contact:
Health Unit, 358-2600

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