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The Scoop on MRSA

There has been a constant buzz in the media about the MRSA bacterial infection.  This has caused fear within our communities.  The incidence of MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) has increased significantly. This bacterium is resistant to many antibiotics.  Most of those affected are infants, children and adolescents.  Approximately 80% are manifested as skin and soft tissue infections which may be fatal if not treated promptly.  Studies have shown that the largest groups of affected children are athletes, tattoo recipients, children in child care centers and newborns.  

What should parents look for?  Call your doctor if the area around “bumps” or “insect bites” on your child’s body is red and inflamed; if the bumps are painful, red or warm to touch; if there is pus within the lesion, or if there is a red, linear streak leading from the area of concern.  Do not squeeze the bumps to express fluid.  You may actually push bacteria deeper into the soft tissue.  Communicate to your pediatrician whether there is a history of boils/abscesses in  your child, family members or school contacts.

How can we prevent MRSA infections?  Frequent hand washing; showering after athletic activities; avoid sharing personal items such as towels, razors, athletic equipment; cleanse abrasions; cover open/infected wounds completely; do not pick at bumps since bacteria under nails can embed in skin.  For children with recurrent infections there are anti-bacterial washes and antibiotic treatments that will be recommended by your pediatrician.

With early diagnosis, most of these infections can be treated successfully with widely available antibiotics.  Your pediatrician may choose to take a culture of pus to guide treatment.  Follow-up is necessary to determine the need for additional intervention such as drainage or a stronger antibiotic.

Information gathered from December 2007 edition of AAP News

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