Through Saint Xavier University’s Health Center, it has been confirmed that one student athlete has tested positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA.
Two high-risk populations for staph infections, and particularly MRSA, are college students and athletes. College students can easily contract this disease because they live in such confined quarters and share dorm space, the diner, etc.
Within the community, outside of hospitals, people are most likely to contract MRSA from shaving or waxing, tattoos or body piercings, any physical contact with an individual who is not only a carrier of MRSA but may have a draining cut or sore, and the sharing of personal items or equipment that is unclean. Athletes sliding on turf can create cuts or sores, which forms an entry way for the bacteria.
Like with college students, athletes also share space through locker rooms and equipment. High contact sport athletes are even more prone to contract MRSA because they go head to head with other university teams.
The symptoms of MRSA vary from person to person. Often times the symptoms of this skin infection are mistaken as spider bites. An infected area can be a single rash or a pus filled boil that can be tender and extremely painful.
When asked what are the best precautions that all students can take in an attempt to decrease their chances of contracting MRSA, Kathryn Tibbits, a Family Nurse Practitioner in the SXU Health Center stated, “The biggest way that students can protect themselves is by washing their hands. Second, they need to frequently wash both their towels and their sheets.” As individuals who use the Shannon Center’s facilities another action that can be taken is to wipe down all equipment both before and after its been used. Another precaution that athletes and fitness fanatics alike can take is to shower after all athletic activity and to receive timely treatment for any skin infections.
There have been students that have also voiced their opinion on the matter. Kate Pacella, a sophomore premed major, says, “I feel that MRSA case should be a concern for every SXU student. I feel that students, athletes, and faculty need to understand the causes and effects of the disease to better their awareness and protection from the disease. I feel prepared from keeping myself [from] contracting the disease because I take care of my health and take precautionariesfrom getting sick.”
Students looking to stay up to date on health related information should follow SXU Cougar Wellness on either Facebook or Twitter.
Catlyn Hicks
Senior News Editor
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