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WAJ Parental Notification Regarding MRSA
You may be aware that many area school districts have experienced cases of MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus ) during this school year. MRSA is a drug-resistant form of the staphylococcus bacterium that, when contracted, usually causes mild, superficial skin infections that produce boils or lesions. Bacteria are transmitted by direct physical contact with contaminated materials such as towels, sheets, clothes and sports equipment, in addition to direct contact with infected persons. On rare occasions, the bacteria get into the bloodstream and deep wounds, causing more severe illness. WAJ has been vigilant in our disinfection protocol to help reduce the risk of MRSA exposure to our students throughout this school year.
On Friday evening, March 7, 2008 , the District confirmed that one WAJ high school student was diagnosed with a form of MRSA . The student has been treated and is expected to return to his school program when medically cleared and able. Although it is believed that the student was exposed to MRSA off-campus, the District immediately followed established cleaning procedures, disinfecting all appropriate facility surfaces, to reduce the risk of infection exposure among our students over the weekend.
To help parents, students and staff understand MRSA , the following website links have been provided below. The information contained can help all community members understand the facts surrounding MRSA , including prevention and treatment. We encourage all individuals to continue using basic universal precautions, maintaining personal hygiene, washing and disinfecting hands and avoiding direct contact with any bodily fluid, to help prevent the contraction or spread of this or any other infection. If you have additional questions regarding this issue or any other health-related student concern, please contact WAJ school nurse Bridget Tompkins, at 518-734-3400 x 216.
NYSED and NYSDOH MRSA Information:
http://www.schoolhealthservicesny.com/uploads/MRSA%20Advisory%20DOH%20SED%20final%20Oct%2025.pdf
CDC MRSA Information: http://www.cdc.gov/Features/MRSAinSchools/
