MRSA case reported at local school district

HOMESTEAD, Pa. — The Steel Valley School District has reported that a staff member at the high school / middle school building has been diagnosed with methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

The district sent a release Thursday night about the infection, but did not identify the teacher.

Disinfection of the building is underway and precautions are being taken to ensure the health of other staff members and the student body.

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MRSA is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact or shared items like towels and bandages. Symptoms include a bump of infected area on the skin that can be red, swollen, painful, warm to the touch or having having drainage.

"Should your child present wth any of these signs or symptoms, we recommend that you consult your health care provider," the district said.

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Good hand washing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers is encourages, along with proper hygiene. Health officials also discourage sharing items that like clothing and towels.

Cox Media Group