MRSA case reported at Livonia high school

LIVONIA, Mich. – A staff member at Livonia Franklin High School has been diagnosed with methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), the school district confirms.

The school sent this letter home to staff members and families of students on Wednesday:

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Dear Franklin Staff Members and Families,

We want to make you aware that a case of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) has been reported in our school. Protocol for sanitization is being followed and the person will not return to school until cleared by a physician.

MRSA is an infection caused by a strain of staph bacteria that has become resistant to the antibiotics commonly used to treat ordinary staph infections.

It's important to know the symptoms of MRSA. The infection starts as small red bumps that resemble pimples, boils or spider bites. These can quickly turn into deep, painful abscesses that require surgical attention. Be aware of minor skin problems such as pimples, insect bites, cuts and scrapes — especially in children. If wounds become infected, see your doctor. Do not attempt to treat an MRSA infection yourself. You could worsen it or spread it to others.

As with all infectious diseases, we ask that parents notify the school immediately upon diagnosis.

Preventative measures include: frequent hand washing; keeping wounds covered; do not share personal items, such as towels, razors, clothing, athletic equipment, etc; shower after athletic games or practices; sanitize linens if you have a cut or sore.

For more information on MRSA, please visit www.mayoclinic.org/mrsa/index.html.