Prevention of community-acquired methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus in K-12 public schools

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) is an emerging public health threat. This study focuses on school policies that help reduce the risk of CA-MRSA infections. While more is known about Hospital-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (HA-MRSA), CA-MRSA is proving to be a concern to public schools in particular. CA-MRSA is a threat to schools because it is spread easily upon person-to-person contact or through contact with a contaminated item, it is difficult to treat, and it can be potentially life-threatening. Younger people in schools, especially athletes, are at risk for contracting this disease. Wrestling mats, locker room fixtures, and cafeteria surfaces are all potentially contaminated objects. An extensive literature review was conducted on the prevalence, costs, and policies surrounding CA-MRSA in K-12 public schools. Information in regards to the fixed indirect costs, variable direct costs, and fixed direct costs of MRSA infections will be presented.  School policies regarding proper sanitization of sports equipment, scrubbing of surfaces with disinfectant wash, and treatment of suspected cases of CA-MRSA will be reviewed. Prevention of infection through school policies will be highlighted. Education is a crucial part of the prevention of CA-MRSA in public schools. The role of Certified Health Education Specialists in this regard will also be discussed. The goal of this presentation is to highlight the importance of education about prevention and to consider CA-MRSA as an emerging public health concern in K-12 public schools.