Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria are a part of the "normal" bacteria carried on the skin of 30% of healthy persons. While much attention has recently been directed at the drug-resistant form (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus), MRSA is well established in the community and has been for many years. Transmission of bacteria causing skin infections among athletic teams is not uncommon. As a result of the nature of staph bacteria, it can easily spread to relatives, classmates, and the community at-large by close contact and sharing of personal items. Only a small percentage of people colonized with staph develop active infections. While environmental prevention measures are important, the most effective way to prevent spread is through proper personal hygiene practices as listed below.

Personal measures

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer
• Do not share personal items (examples: clothes, towels, uniforms, equipment, razors)
• Shower after athletic activities
• Athletes should avoid cosmetic shaving of arms and legs
• Towels and uniforms should be washed after every use
• During athletic activities, if possible, consider covering arms and legs with clothing
• New wounds (examples: scrapes, abrasions, scratches, and any break in skin) should be cleaned immediately
• Use proper bandages to keep wounds clean, dry and covered
• Do not apply antibacterial cream to wounds unless directed by a medical provider
• Students and staff should report skin infections to the school nurse and to coaches/athletic trainers/physical education teachers
• See a medical provider if the skin begins to appear infected- red, hot, swollen, tender or draining fluid

Institutional measures

• Soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizers should be readily available
• Exclude students and staff from school and athletics if a wound is draining and cannot be kept clean, dry and covered
• If a wound is draining and is uncovered, the student should be evaluated by the school or athletic trainer
• During athletic activities, a first aid kit with ample dressings should be available
• Use a disinfectant that is EPA registered as effective against MRSA to clean surfaces
• Maintain a regular cleaning schedule
• Perform daily surface cleaning of areas touched frequently by large numbers of people and locker room surfaces (examples: showers, benches, countertops)
• Perform scheduled cleaning of weight room equipment and other gym equipment