Why School Athletic Programs Are Breeding Grounds for MRSA

The reasons methicillin resistant staph aureus thrives in the athletic program environments are numerous. Here are just a few:

1. Many athletic program sports are contact sports and MRSA superbugs are frequently transferred by person-to-person contact.
2. The name of the game in contact sports is to take out the competition and as a result, both minor and major injuries are the norm. These injuries provide a perfect entry point for MRSA infection.
3. Athletic program sports involve sports equipment that is difficult to clean and used repeatedly. Football gear and hock gear are the biggest offenders.
4. Moist, warm locker rooms are standard Athletic Program gathering places and MRSA thrives in this friendly incubator environment.
5. The sharing of weight-training equipment carries particular risk of skin exposure to MRSA.

What should be done about MRSA in School Athletic Programs

Both high school and college athletic program directors should take steps to assure that every precaution is being taken to protect the athletes from contracting methicillin resistant staph aureus and other superbug infections. All athletic equipment, showers and locker rooms should be sanitized regularly with the latest technology. Injuries should never be minimized. All concerns voiced by an athlete about an injury should be taken seriously with prompt and thorough medical attention. Failure to do these things could result in devastating student illness or even death. Additionally, the school risks exposure of another type - lawsuits. Already one such law suit is pending against a western college because of a MRSA infection that should have been treated earlier.

Parents have a key role in Protecting Athletes from MRSA

Parents and guardians should be asking questions of athletic directors and coaches. Ask about the sanitation procedures in athletic programs. Do not assume that proper precautions are being taken to protect athletes. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the frequency and method of cleaning all the equipment and athletic facilities. Don't overlook the workout equipment in the weight training room. Challenge the system - the local school board and the college board of directors. Your children deserve to be protected from the dangers of MRSA while participating in school athletic programs

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