MRSA skin infections may look like a small pimple or boil. Some ...

Dear Parents/Guardians:

It has been brought to our attention that a student at Harrison Park Elementary School has
been treated for MRSA-CA. With the return to school it is not unusual to see an increase
in infections as germs spread from student to student. One such infection is MRSA-CA
(methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, community acquired). MRSA is also known
as a “staph” infection.

MRSA is not a problem for healthy people, only those with limited immune systems or
those who have been on antibiotics. Many people carry MRSA on their skin and in their
nostrils but it just “lives there” and causes no problem unless the opportunity arises.

MRSA skin infections may look like a small pimple or boil. Some people may confuse
them for spider or insect bites. The wound may be red, swollen or painful and may have
pus or other drainage. If your child has any type of wound or skin infection please
monitor it carefully. If you do not see signs of healing within a few days please contact
your healthcare provider.

Good hand washing and hygiene help to prevent the spread of MRSA and other germs.
Please encourage your family to wash their hands well with soap and water, and avoid
sharing personal items such as sports gear, towels, washcloths, razors or uniforms.

If a MRSA infection is diagnosed please follow you doctor’s instructions, keep the
wound covered and practice good hygiene, particularly hand washing.


Thank you for your cooperation,

Penn-Trafford School District
School Nurse

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