Community-Acquired Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (CA-MRSA)
What is it: A bacterial infection that is resistent to the most common antibiotic treatment (penicillin, amoxicillin, methicillin, etc.)--no longer used for treatment. This is a rapidly progressing bacteria that attacks the soft tissue areas of the skin and can become systemic by entering the blood stream, endagering joints and vital organs.
Transmission: Direct contact with the infected area, contact with a surface that contacted the infected area. It can live for MONTHS on surfaces and fabrics (lives in dead skin cells)!
Signs/symptoms: Looks like a spider bite; area becomes red and hot, pustule (DO NOT POP!), may see red streaking around lesion, longer than normal healing time, unusual or unexplained pain or sensitivity, hardness in area.
Treatment: Must see physician (may become very dangerous if it gets into the bloodstream)--culture area. Keep all suspected areas covered with a dry, clean bandage, use an antimicrobial proven to kill MRSA (may use a bleach mixure with a ration of 9:1), evaluate vitals and inspect infected area daily.
Prevention: GOOD HYGIENE is the best prevention!
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Frequent handwashing or use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
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Cover all cuts, scrapes, rashes, skin disruptions, etc. prior to participation
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Shower after every practice and competition BEFORE leaving the facility
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Do not share personal items (razors, towels, clothing, bars of soap, etc.)
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Wash all workout gear after each pratice in HOT water and detergent, dry on HOT
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Let all equipment dry thoroughly before next use (DO NOT LET IT SIT IN YOUR GYM BAG--dark and damp area perfect for breeding bacteria!)
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Wipe down all equipment after each practice/competition (head gear, shoulder pads, etc.)
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Clean all practice surfaces with a bleach mixture or antimicrobial proven to kill MRSA
What does it look like?
