MRSA Infections in Child Care Programs

What is MRSA? Methicillin-Resistant Staphyloccus Aureus Bacteria that causes infections on the surface on the skin, or goes into skin and causes a boil or abcess For every 1000 hospitalizations, 46 people will acquire MRSA

Why are Children in child care at risk?

How is MRSA spread? Usually skin to skin contact Sharing personal items and equipment Soiled surfaces Close contact environments

5-C’s Crowding Contact Compromised skin Contaminated items and surfaces Cleanliness (lack of) Skin to skin contact Cuts or scrapes MRSA can live on surfaces for days, weeks or months. Those with draining infections are shedding more bacteria than those who have the germ harmlessly living on their skin or noses, therefore they are more contagious.

How do you limit the spread? Thorough handwashing All toys should be cleaned and disinfected between uses Thorough cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces with an EPA registered sanitizer or ¼ cup bleach to 1 gallon water

Observe children for open wounds If wound is draining or contains pus, should see an MD If drainage can’t be contained by a bandage, should be excluded.

How is MRSA treated? Soft tissue infections drained and cleaned by MD Take ALL of your antibiotics* Don’t share or save antibiotics Unless your doctor tells you not to

Reportable? Not in KY

Does a child with MRSA need to be excluded from a group-care setting? No, if the wound can be covered and the dressing kept dry and intact. Red, swollen and painful areas

Does a center need to be closed and sanitized if a child has MRSA? No; clean and sanitize all objects and surfaces that may have come in contact with infected wounds. Continue with routine cleaning and sanitizing