Oct 18, 2007 4:56 pm US/Central
Tips On Keeping Clear Of 'Superbug' Infections
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
With the recent death of a high school student, many parents are now wondering what the best way is to protect their kids from the spread of Staph infections in schools.
These are scary infections, and news they are more widespread than suspected is not good. But as CBS 2 Medical Editor Mary Ann Childers reports, there are several things it's important to know, starting with the fact that more people are going to die of flu this year than will of MRSA.
Nearly one-third of us carry these bacteria in our throats or on our skin. They're harmless, unless they enter the body through a cut or wound. In most people, they cause only minor skin infections. But there are different kinds of Staph. And some drug resistant strains can cause life-threatening infections and pneumonia if they enter the body.
These "superbugs" first appeared in hospitals, but since the 1990s, they have been showing up in the community. You don't get it by sneezing, but by direct contact.
"People shouldn't be scared, they should be concerned and people should take precaution," said Chicago Department of Public Health Director Terry Mason, M.D. "Their kids, places they work, play, go to school are cleaned well…the number one defense."
To prevent MRSA infection doctors say:
- Wash hands frequently.
- Don't share personal items, such as towels, razors, or athletic equipment.
- Clean wounds carefully, and keep them covered.
- Routinely disinfect sports equipment and clothing.
- If a cut starts to get red and infected, see a doctor immediately.
And, get tested. If you have a skin infection, ask your doctor to test for MRSA. In Illinois, tests are mandatory for patients in intensive care units, and hospitals must develop plans to prevent the spread of such infections.
cbs2chicago.com's Most Popular Pages
Slideshow: Halloween, Hollywood-Style Slideshow: Useless Body Parts Slideshow: In To Be Out: Gay Celebrities Slideshow: Did You Know? Stars From Chicago!
(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
