Saturday, October 25, 2008

Germs can become your Worst nightmare.


Who knew that staph infections could be life threatening? I surely didn't. I often remarked that we are being too cautious with our children, and we are making them more susceptible to germs. Hand sanitizer anyone?

You notice I used past tense. I felt that way until I started reading about MRSA. Who would have thought that a staph infection could kill you? Well it can be a life threatening condition. So how do I find out more information about MRSA and what can I do to prevent this from happening to me and my family? Fortunately help is on the way.


Go to Stopmrsanow.org This site is comprehensive. It provides frequently asked questions, it provides information on how you can take action at your child's school, daycare, and even the hospital. In addition to the FAQS, it also provides links to families stories about MRSA and how it has affected them. For more information on MRSA visit stopmrsanow.org

Below are some tips to fight MRSA:

  • Scrub up - Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds - the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice - or use an alcohol-based hand rub sanitizer.
  • Wipe it down - Use a disinfecting bleach solution to wipe down and disinfect hard surfaces. Make sure to use clean cloths to avoid spreading MRSA from one surface to another. (1 tablespoon of disinfecting bleach diluted in 1 quart of water)
  • Cover your cuts - Keep any nicks or wounds covered with a clean, dry bandage until healed.
  • Keep to yourself - Do not share personal items, like towels or razors, that come into contact with bare skin.
  • Use a barrier - Keep a towel or clothing between skin and shared equipment
I hope that no one has to deal with this, but the stopmrsanow website is a good place to start.

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