Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), sometimes called the “super bug,” is a bacterium that causes infections in different parts of the body. It can be contracted from contaminated locker rooms, sports equipment, as well as contact sports. It’s difficult to treat than most strains of staphylococcus aureus, because it’s resistant to some commonly used antibiotics and can be life threatening to individuals who have weak immune systems. With the Fall sports season being well underway, it’s important to educate ourselves and children on how to properly disinfect any equipment and prevent getting MRSA. People can be carriers and not show any symptoms of MRSA plus can easily spread the bacteria to other people. Here are a few practical steps borrowed from stopmrsanow.org to help reduce the spread of MRSA.
* Scrub up – Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds – the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice – or use an alcohol-based hand rub sanitizer.
* Wipe it down – Use a disinfecting bleach solution to wipe down and disinfect hard surfaces. Make sure to use clean cloths to avoid spreading MRSA from one surface to another. (3/4 cup of disinfecting bleach diluted in 1 gallon of water)
* Cover your cuts – Keep any nicks or wounds covered with a clean, dry bandage until healed.
* Keep to yourself – Do not share personal items, like towels or razors, that come into contact with bare skin.
* Use a barrier – Keep a towel or clothing between skin and shared equipment.
Please watch this quick “Collect. Disinfect. Donate.” video that teaches simple steps on how to properly disinfect sports equipment before using and donating.
“ I’m helping raise awareness for Equip Them Well to help stop MRSA. through One2One Network and entering to win a gift card by posting this information”
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