Preventing MRSA Infections

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: October 22, 2007

CONTACT: Zipora Reitman

(845) 574-4244

Preventing MRSA Infections

Suffern, NY - To all members of the RCC Community:

As you may be aware, at other campuses there have been cases of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). There have been no confirmed cases of MRSA at RCC, however, we felt it was appropriate at this time to keep our community informed with information on MRSA and good health hygiene. Please be aware of the following:

What is MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)?

MRSA is a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics.

What does a staph or MRSA infection look like?

Staph bacteria, including MRSA, can cause skin infections that may look like a pimple or boil and can be red, swollen, painful, or have pus or other drainage. More serious infections may cause pneumonia, bloodstream infections, or surgical wound infections.

How can I prevent staph or MRSA skin infections?

Practice good hygiene:

• Keep your hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• 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.

Are staph and MRSA infections treatable?

Yes. Most staph and MRSA infections are treatable with antibiotics. If you are given an antibiotic, take all of the doses, even if the infection is getting better, unless your doctor tells you to stop taking it. Do not share antibiotics with other people or save unfinished antibiotics to use at another time. If after visiting your healthcare provider the infection is not getting better after a few days, contact them again. If other people you know or live with get the same infection tell them to go to their healthcare provider.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Cliff L. Wood, President

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