Information Regarding Staph Infections (October 2008)

With all of the national media attention involving Staph infections and the increasing number of cases being reported by doctors, we wanted to take this opportunity to let parents know what measures are being taken in the schools to prevent any spread of such infections.

These contagious skin infections are usually easy to treat with inexpensive, well-tolerated antibiotics according to information from the County Health Departments, though some staph bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA). Our nurses work closely with the health department and also communicate with the cleaning staff and the coaches on each campus. The health department asks for cases to be reported if they reach several in number at any one location, nurses also report any incidence of MRSA. Students who are released by their physician to do so may return to school and to activities.

As in any year, we are seeing some isolated cases that are most likely not school related, however, we are taking every precaution and preventative measure in regard to the spread of staph infection. See a listing below:

Cleaning

• All schools - Daily routine cleaning involves wiping all high contact areas, including desks, door handles, computer keyboards, and restrooms with disinfecting wipes and Sterephine II disinfecting/deodorizing cleaner.  A disinfecting cleaner is used in mopping floors, including gym floors, on a daily basis.
• Athletic areas - The custodial department began a routine program this school year for disinfecting all athletic areas, and FISD uses several types of disinfectants that are known to stop the spread of the staph bacteria. Our locker rooms are cleaned through a “fogging” system; lockers are wiped down with a similar type of disinfectant. Steam cleaning of athletic equipment is the preferred method since some students may have sensitivity to disinfectants that are used. In addition, the athletic clothing we issue is being laundered in hot water and with a special type of detergent.

If there is a confirmed case of staph infection, cleaning crews will conduct a special disinfecting cleaning. At the secondary schools, the athletic areas are emphasized because there is more opportunity for students to have skin to skin contact or to have contact with equipment.

Student Education

• Handwashing: At all levels we cannot emphasize enough the importance of frequent washing of hands to help prevent the spread of this and other infections. Proper washing technique is with warm water and soap by lathering between fingers, up above the wrist and under nails for at least 15 seconds. We also have hand sanitizers in all of our classrooms.
• Athletics: We are asking our athletes to be sure to shower with soap after sports activities; wash any cuts or abrasions; and cover any open wounds. We also ask students to not share towels, razors, soap, and other personal items. We are placing informational posters in the athletic areas and utilizing other educational materials, such as presentations provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

As parents, we ask that you please alert your school and your physician if your child develops a suspicious skin irritation. Also be watchful of cuts and abrasions and keep them clean and protected as appropriate. For more information regarding staph, see the additional information in this area of the website (health services) or visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/ Thank you as always for everything you do for your student and your schools. If a parent informs us that a student at your school has a physician confirmed case of staph infection, we will inform you and give a reminder of best practices.