Pentucket Regional School District

22 Main St West Newbury, MA 978-363-2280

INFORMATION FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Dear Parents/Guardians                                                                                     November 2007

As you are probably aware, the media has been reporting about schools on the local and national level that are responding to recent outbreaks of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). MRSA are staphylococci bacteria that are resistant to the antibiotic methicillin, and other commonly used antibiotics such as penicillin and cephalosporins. Therefore, alternate antibiotics must be used to treat persons infected with MRSA. The staph bacteria may cause skin infections that look like pimples or boils. The symptoms may be broad, but generally include redness and swelling on an area of the skin. They are usually spread through direct contact with the hands of a person who is infected or carrying the organism. A simple test from a physician can determine if a person is infected. Any person of any age may become infected.

While this type of infection is not new (cases date back approximately 30 years in our country), the level of concern has been raised due to recent cases in our area. To address this matter in our schools, we have begun a process to increase efforts in sanitizing frequently used areas of our schools. While we have been sanitizing facilities such as athletic training rooms, weight rooms, and locker areas as a matter of procedure, these efforts will be increased. In addition, cleaning products that meet health department standards will be used on a regular basis during the course of the day.  Restroom facilities and cafeterias will also continue to be sanitized on a daily basis. Our athletic director has begun to educate coaches and student-athletes about steps they can take to reduce the risk of infections.

Families of students in our district should also assist us in our efforts by taking a few simple precautions:

• Wash hands with soap and warm water frequently.
• Cover all wounds with an appropriate bandage
• Report any lingering sore or infection to your physician or school nurse.
• Avoid sharing of personal items such as towels, razors, and clothing.
• Wash sports clothing and sanitize equipment daily – never wear “wet” clothing.
• Shower daily and as soon as possible after sports practice and/or exercise.

To learn more about MRSA, you may consult the links below that direct you to additional details about the infection. The health and safety of ours schools’ children is of highest importance to all of us, and through a concerned effort we will continue to monitor this matter and be proactive in an effort to reduce the risk of infection.

Massachusetts State Department of Health link at

www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/antibiotic/antibiotic_home.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov