East Grand Forks public school officials are telling parents not to worry, but to take simple precautions, after a student came down with a rare type of rash.
A letter from officials went home to parents in each of the schools in the district Tuesday describing an MRSA infection, or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, contracted by a student.
MRSA infections are a type of staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics commonly used in treatment.
Superintendent Walt Aanenson said parents should not be alarmed. "It's kind of in the order of a head lice," he said.
Following a request by the student's doctor, Aanenson said, he could not comment on the status of the student or which school the student attends.
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Christy Carlstrom, South Point Elementary School nurse, said the infection is not very common.
MRSA generally starts as small red bumps that resemble pimples, boils or spider bites, according to the Centers for Disease Control. It is transmitted by direct contact or by contaminated objects.
District letters sent home to parents asked that they notify a physician if their child has a sore that isn't healing, even if it has been treated by a physician or with over-the-counter medicines.
Most staph infections are minor and can be easily treated, according to the Centers for Disease Control. However, staph infections also may cause more serious infections, such as those involving the bloodstream or pneumonia.
Janet Muldoon, Polk County public health nurse, said the infection had not been reported to the county.
"They would contact us if they wanted us to do something," she said.
The best way to prevent the spread of MRSA and other staph infections is to wash your hands frequently. Also, avoid sharing personal items, such as gym towels and clothing, and keep wounds covered.
