Guest Author - Susan Thompson

There have been several cases of MRSA reported in the last few weeks. Sadly a few youths have died from this form of staff infection that is resistant to broad spectrum antibiotics. So, how do you protect your family? To find out, I did some research online, and found some interesting facts and some helpful hints in protecting your loved ones.

According to Mayoclinic.com “Staph bacteria are normally found on the skin or in the nose of about one third of the population.” The article goes on to say that “Staph bacteria are generally harmless unless they enter the body through a cut or other wound, and even then they often cause only minor skin problems in healthy people.”

MRSA begins as a skin irritation that looks like pimples, bug bites, or boils which quickly become painful sores. MRSA can also enter the bloodstream through a cut in the skin. You should have any suspicious symptoms checked by a doctor. If you suspect MRSA, ask to be tested if the doctor doesn’t suggest it.

Of course, you know the best medicine for most anything is prevention. Hand washing is the best defense against germs. Your child should be taught to wash their hands after using the rest room and before they eat. Teach your children to wash their hands properly. Fifteen seconds of hand washing using soap and warm water is recommended. The best way to dry hands is with a disposable paper towel. Carry anti-bacterial wipes or waterless hand sanitizer with you for those times when you are not near a rest room.

We teach our children to share, but some things just should not be shared. Do not allow your children to share towels, wash clothes or any other personal care items. It is recommended that bed sheets be washed at least weekly. I add a cup of bleach when washing sheets to kill germs.

When it comes to cuts and scrapes, keep them clean and covered with a sterile bandage. Teach you children not to pick at scabs, not only does that invite infection, but it can also cause scarring. If your child has an open cut, I would advise keeping them out of things like those public ball pits and play areas that are found at fast food restaurants, those places are crawling with germs.

Again, if you are in doubt, have it checked out. It is always better to be safe than sorry.