Middle school preventing MRSA through proactive measures

Maricopa Wells Middle School, although it currently has NO reported cases of MRSA, is taking a proactive stance against the spread of the infection.

The school is accepting donations to homeroom classes of Clorox Formula 409 Antibacterial All Purpose Cleaner or Lysol Brand Disinfectant Spray for Kitchens and clean rags to assist teachers in multiple surfaces wiping throughout the school day as a preventative measure to protect students and staff from the spread of MRSA (see related story).

The district custodial staff will continue to use approved cleaning materials proven effective in preventing the spread of MRSA in daily cleaning of the facility and classrooms.

Protect yourself from MRSA. Preventing Methicillan Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) tips:

· Have good hygiene practices, which means wash your hands frequently or use 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizers (parents can send mini bottles with your students for use throughout the day).

· Cover any wounds with clean, dry bandages sealed on all four sides.

· Avoid contact with anyone else’s skin infections. Report skin infections to parents/nurses.

· Shower after sports practices/matches.

· See the district Web site for parent flyers in both English and Spanish on MRSA.

Discuss these items with your child or children as factual information and reminders of good hygiene, which will help not only with the MRSA prevention but also prevention of bacteria and viruses as we enter the winter cold/flu season. Healthier students and staff means better learning!